Bradford (Park Avenue) have confirmed the deadline day capture of Morecambe man Luke Hendrie.
The defender, who featured in both of the Shrimps’ league games since their takeover and National League suspension was lifted, has joined the Yorkshire side on a season-long deal.
Hendrie Returns Home
A Bradford native, Hendrie emerged through the Bradford City academy but then made the switch to the Manchester United youth setup. He jumped about multiple clubs since turning professional at Old Trafford, and made his senior debut for Hartlepool United while on loan from Burnley.
Hendrie has EFL experience with Grimsby Town, Shrewsbury Town and Bradford City, who his father John played for. He returned to Valley Parade on a free transfer in 2022 during the club’s time in League Two, and played 22 times in his most recent stint at Valley Parade.
Morecambe signed the 31-year-old last summer and he would have a successful personal season despite the off-field turmoil at the Mazuma Stadium, playing 40 times.
He joins Bradford Park Avenue in the eighth tier of English football after successive relegations in recent seasons, but have held position in the Northern Premier League Division One East. Speaking about his arrival at the Horsfall Stadium, Hendrie said:
“I’m really excited to be signing for the club after a fantastic start to the season. This fits in perfectly with my next chapter and I’ve had some really good conversations with the manager. I’m looking forward to getting going.”
Writers’ View
This is a big move for Bradford Park Avenue and somewhat of a coup, seeing that Luke Hendrie was playing in the EFL just months ago. Sticking with Morecambe through this summer’s crisis, the defender looked set to stick about and help them stabilise in the National League, but it seems a return to his home in Bradford has seen him leave.
