Bradford City will now turn their attentions to preparing for the summer following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign.
Bradford City ultimately came up short in their late bid to break into the play-offs, but their improved form over the second half of the season should be encouragement for the new campaign.
The Bantams will likely have a busy few months ahead as Alexander gears up for his first summer transfer window in charge at Valley Parade. While new signings are needed, decisions will also be made over the futures of those currently on the books.
As clubs prepare to reveal their retained lists, the fate of several out-of-contract players hangs in the balance, including those at Bradford City. Here’s what we can anticipate from the Bantams as they finalize their decisions.
Priority: Securing Bobby Pointon’s Future
Bradford City’s top priority should be securing a new deal for rising star Bobby Pointon. With his contract set to expire this summer, the 20-year-old Bradford native has attracted attention as a key first-team player. While there’s a one-year extension option mentioned on his Transfermarkt profile, the club must act decisively to either renegotiate his contract or trigger the extension, ensuring his continued presence beyond this season.
Players to be released
Of those out of contract this summer, there are a handful you can see moving on from Valley Parade.
Veterans Matt Derbyshire and Colin Doyle have featured sparingly and may make way when their deals expire. Harry Chapman has been in the Bradford City squad but a lack of starts under Alexander could point to him not featuring in the plans going forward.
Liam Ridehalgh had featured regularly but a drop out the side for the 33-year-old over April may well spell the end of his time at the club after three years.
Potential extensions
Besides Pointon, a bunch of Bantams mainstays see their contracts expiring, with their pivotal contributions hinting at potential extensions.
Bradford City skipper Richie Smallwood leads this group, joined by Matty Platt, Brad Halliday, and Jamie Walker, all of whom have played vital roles. Despite Sam Stubbs’ absence due to a fractured skull in recent times, his impact remains significant.
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