BRADFORD, ENGLAND - JULY 19: Jamie Walker of Bradford celebrates after he scores the second goal from the penalty spot during the pre-season friendly match between Bradford City and Sunderland at Coral Windows Stadium, Valley Parade on July 19, 2022 in Bradford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images)
The Bantams have had a frustrating start to the 2023/24 campaign and will be eager to rectify their wrongdoings ahead of Saturday’s League Two clash with Mansfield Town
According to manager Mark Hughes, Bradford City “are not done yet” in terms of adding further quality to their side before the transfer window closes. Similarly, the “forward” position is likely to be the focus of the final day of the window, although no names have been reported as of yet.
Injuries consume the Bantams
Striker Vadaine Oliver is currently out with a long-term injury, whilst Jake Young is on loan at Swindon Town and is currently the most ‘in-form’ player in Europe with seven goals and three assists in just four matches.
Similarly, experienced striker Andy Cook has had a difficult start to the campaign and is yet to score. The Bantams have scored six goals this season and four of them have come from midfielders, which isn’t sustainable long-term.
Frustrating start
Bradford City have taken seven points from their opening five matches in League Two this season, winning narrowly against Colchester United and Crewe Alexandra. However, Bradford have also suffered a shock defeat against Crawley Town as well as a heavy loss to Morecambe, which has left them 12th in the standings.
Writer’s View
Bradford City have been far from dominant so far this season and their forward addition will arrive with an increased level of pressure on his shoulders.
However, a new addition could prove to be the turning point for Mark Hughes’ men, with the Bantams receiving a morale boost as well as a player who is desperate to impress at his new side.
The forward is a product of the Sheffield United Academy and has had various EFL loan spells, throughout the early years of his career. He joined Hull City in 2021 from the Blades but is set for a new home after two years.
Last season, Smith started with Hull City, scoring three goals in 14 Championship appearances. However, he joined Oxford United on loan in January, making an additional seven appearances but didn’t manage to contribute to a goal or assist
Mark Hughes’ side reached the League Two play-offs last season, but despite leading the opening leg, the club suffered an exit against eventual winners Carlisle United. This has forced the Bantams to settle for another season of League Two football.
The club have work to do ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, replacing various loanees that have left the club. However, they have also managed to tie down Andy Cook to a lucrative new contract, ahead of the new campaign.
What’s been said?
According to journalist Alan Nixon, Mark Hughes sees the forward as a big part of their promotion push, ahead of the 2023/24 campaign in League Two.
Smith will join the Bantams on a free transfer, upon the expiry of his contract with the Championship side and will be eager to kick on next season.
Writer’s View
Smith has plenty of pace and is a completely different type of striker from the experienced figure of Andy Cook, further boosting the club’s attacking options.
He’s also signing on a free transfer, creating a low-risk, high-reward kind of signing for Mark Hughes and his side, ahead of the new season and I expect him to excel in the fourth tier.
