Bradford Park Avenue have pulled off an eye-catching signing, securing the services of former Sheffield Wednesday, Millwall, and Bolton Wanderers defender Mark Beevers on a one-year deal.
The move, which is pending international clearance and league approval, is set to be one of the most significant transfers in the club’s recent history. Beevers, 33, has recently returned to England after a spell in Australia, where he played for A-League side Perth Glory. His wealth of experience across English football, along with his recent international stint, is expected to bring both leadership and defensive solidity to the Northern Premier League East Division side.
Manager Craig Elliott couldn’t hide his excitement about the new arrival, telling local press, “Mark is exactly the type of signing we needed, as he gives us vital experience and physical presence. To sign a player of his calibre shows we are intent on improving, and he will be a big signing for us on and off the pitch.”
Sporting director Tom McStravick echoed Elliott’s sentiments, adding, “We are delighted to welcome someone of Mark’s experience to the club. He’s a real leader, and I’m excited to see him in a BPA shirt.”
Though Beevers will not feature in tomorrow’s FA Trophy second qualifying round tie against Ossett United, fans are hopeful to see him make his debut in next Saturday’s home league match against Heaton Stannington.
Who is Mark Beevers?
Beevers began his career at Sheffield Wednesday, joining their academy and making his senior debut in 2007. He quickly established himself as a key player and was named the club’s Player of the Year in the 2007-08 season. Beevers played 161 times for the Owls, gaining valuable experience in both the Championship and League One.
In 2011, he had a brief loan spell with Milton Keynes Dons before moving to Millwall, initially on loan, then permanently in 2013. At Millwall, he made over 150 appearances, playing a significant role in the club’s defence over four seasons.
Beevers’ next move came in 2016 when he signed for Bolton Wanderers, where he enjoyed one of the most successful periods of his career. He helped the club earn promotion from League One in 2016-17 and was named in the PFA League One Team of the Year.
In 2019, Beevers joined Peterborough United, serving as captain and again earning promotion to the Championship in 2020-21. Most recently, Beevers played for Perth Glory in Australia’s A-League, returning to England in 2024 after a two-year stint.
Writer’s View
The addition of a player like Mark Beevers, with over 15 years of experience across various tiers of English football, represents a significant coup for Bradford Park Avenue. Beevers’ experience at clubs like Sheffield Wednesday and Millwall, where he developed a reputation as a strong, no-nonsense defender, will be invaluable to a side looking to strengthen its defence and make a push for success this season.
His recent stint in Australia with Perth Glory also shows that Beevers still has the hunger to compete at a high level, and his return to the UK comes at a perfect time for Bradford. This move not only demonstrates the club’s ambition but also highlights the increasing ability of non-league teams to attract experienced professionals.
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