Bradford City have announced the signing of experienced defender Matthew Pennington following his release from Blackpool.
The 30-year-old centre-back has signed a two-year contract with the newly-promoted League One side.
Bradford Beat Rivals to Experienced Defender
Pennington departs Bloomfield Road after two seasons, having initially been a key figure in Blackpool’s defence under Neil Critchley. However, following a disrupted 2024/25 campaign that included injury setbacks and a change in management, he has opted to move on in pursuit of regular first-team football.
Despite holding discussions with Blackpool over a new deal, his path to game time was blocked by the recent arrivals of Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe. That opened the door for Bradford City to make their move – and Graham Alexander has now added a defender with over a decade of professional experience.
Pennington began his career at Everton, making nine senior appearances and enjoying loan spells at Coventry City, Leeds United, Hull City, and Ipswich Town. He moved permanently to Shrewsbury Town in 2021, where he became a key player, amassing 113 appearances across two seasons.
His 2023 switch to Blackpool looked promising initially. Pennington played 35 league games in his first campaign and was a regular in a back three under Critchley. But after the manager’s departure and Steve Bruce’s arrival, his opportunities dwindled. He ended the 2024/25 season with just 15 appearances, often playing backup to Ipswich loanee Elkan Baggott.
Now with Bradford City, Pennington is expected to bring leadership and experience to a squad adjusting to life in League One. His move reunites him with the third tier, where he has consistently performed at a high level in previous spells.
Writer’s View
This looks a smart and timely acquisition by Graham Alexander. Matthew Pennington brings bags of experience and leadership at a level where those qualities matter. Bradford have been active since promotion, but few signings will match Pennington’s pedigree—Premier League foundations, EFL consistency, and proven resilience.
With Blackpool strengthening their own defence, this is a win-win: Pennington gets the minutes he craves, and Bradford get a dependable figure to anchor their back line. He could be a key factor in ensuring they don’t just survive, but thrive, in League One.
