Bradford City Announce New Manager

After a long wait, Graham Alexander has been unveiled as the new manager of Bradford City following a lengthy period since the departure of Manchester United legend Mark Hughes, according to the club’s official website.

Graham Alexander joins alongside former Bury boss Chris Lucketti. This appointment sees a sharp return to work for Alexander, who was vacated from his position at MK Dons just a day after the City job became vacant following a run of poor form.

Those familiar with the EFL may recall many notable jobs from the Bantams’ new man, with notable success coming across the leagues; Alexander was of course responsible for bringing newly-promoted Salford out of the National League, where he got the job done in his first season. He lost the job in October 2020, and left with Salford 5th in League Two.

This, combined with his playoff-winning run at Fleetwood and playoff push with Scunthorpe in League One may be considered sufficient experience to persuade any scepticism about how well suited he is to the job.

Speaking to the club’s official website Graham Alexander spoke of his delight:

“It is really good to be here. I am very excited about the role, the potential of the team and the club.

“Me and Chris have been here quite a few times as a management duo competing against Bradford City, but it will be good to be on the right side, now.

“When the stadium is full and the crowd is behind the team, it is a really difficult venue to come and play at, so we have to make it a tough place for everyone else to visit.

“Joining a club, you have to look at the short-term improvements you can make, but also look at the potential of what you can do. Here, for me, that scope is endless.

“I am really excited for the weekend. You will not see me sat down in the dugout too much, but we know what this venue is like for a game of football, and we are looking forward to getting our supporters behind this team and bringing them excitement.”

Alexander is set to make his bow at Valley Parade against Barrow.

Writer’s view

I think most people would agree that the Bradford City job is one of higher pressure than most others in League Two, and I expect that to have had a decent influence in the appointment of Alexander. Considering the names who may have been up with his in the interview process, many fans will be expecting him to make his mark sooner rather than later.