As Newport County prepare to take on Bradford City, we take a closer look at Monday night’s opponents.
What’s their story?
Founded in 1903, Bradford City made an immediate impact in English football, rapidly climbing the ranks. Within just five years, they secured promotion to the top flight by winning the 1907-08 Second Division title. Their crowning glory came in 1911 when they lifted the FA Cup after a 1-0 win over Newcastle United in a replayed final - Bradford's only major trophy to date and a historic moment for the club.
The 1980s marked another golden era for the Bantams under the leadership of Roy McFarland and Trevor Cherry. Bradford earned promotion to the Second Division in the 1981-82 season and went on to claim the Third Division title in 1984-85. However, their fortunes took a hit with relegation from the Second Division in 1990. Despite the setback, Bradford City's resilience remained intact, and in the 1998-99 season, they returned to the top flight, ending a 77-year absence and securing a place in the Premier League.
The early 2000s, however, brought financial struggles. The club entered administration twice in just two years, resulting in relegations in 2004 and 2007, which saw Bradford fall to the fourth tier. Nevertheless, under manager Phil Parkinson, the Bantams experienced a resurgence. In 2013, they reached the League Cup final and later won the League Two play-off final to secure promotion back to League One. Although they were relegated again in 2019, Bradford City continues to fight for a return to the higher leagues, competing with determination in League Two.
Who’s the boss?
Graham Alexander took the helm at Bradford City in 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record. As a player, Alexander was renowned for his versatility, excelling as a right-back and defensive midfielder throughout his career with clubs such as Scunthorpe United, Luton Town, Preston North End, and Burnley. He also earned 40 caps for Scotland.
Alexander's managerial career began at Fleetwood Town, where he made an immediate impact by guiding them to promotion from League Two via the 2013-14 play-offs. Despite this success, he was dismissed in 2015, but he quickly found new opportunities, managing Scunthorpe United and then Salford City.
At Salford, Alexander led the team to the Football League in his debut season, securing promotion from the National League. He later managed in Scotland with Motherwell before a brief stint with Milton Keynes Dons in 2023, where he was named EFL League Two Manager of the Month in August before an eight-game winless run led to his departure.
Since joining Bradford City, Alexander has continued to build his reputation. In his first season, he guided the Bantams to a ninth-place finish in League Two, narrowly missing out on the play-offs by just one point. His arrival has brought a renewed sense of ambition to Valley Parade as he works to restore Bradford City to their former glory.
Who’s the skipper?
Richard Smallwood, the experienced and commanding captain of Bradford City, has been a vital figure for the Bantams since joining the club in 2022. A product of Middlesbrough's academy, Smallwood made his professional debut in 2010 and scored his first goal for the club the following year.
However, limited first-team opportunities prompted a loan move to Rotherham United, where his strong performances earned him a permanent transfer. During his time at Rotherham, Smallwood made over 100 appearances and helped the team secure promotion to the Championship.
His consistent displays caught the attention of Blackburn Rovers, where he became a fan favourite, earning the nickname "King of Ewood" for his leadership and midfield tenacity. Smallwood played a key role in Blackburn’s promotion to the Championship, further cementing his reputation as a reliable and hard-working player.
In 2020, Smallwood signed for Hull City, where he was immediately named captain and guided the team to the League One title in his first season. After leaving Hull, he joined Bradford City and was swiftly given the captain’s armband. His leadership and experience have been instrumental in guiding the Bantams as they push for promotion back to the upper tiers of English football.
A key player
Andy Cook has been a key figure for Bradford City, establishing himself as one of the most consistent strikers in League Two. His professional career began at Carlisle United in 2009, but it was during his stints at Barrow and Grimsby Town that Cook started to make a name for himself as a prolific goal-scorer. After returning to Barrow for a fourth spell, Cook hit his stride, scoring 47 goals in 87 appearances, a form that earned him a move to Tranmere Rovers.
At Tranmere, Cook continued to thrive, scoring 51 goals in 97 games and winning the National League Golden Boot. He played a pivotal role in Tranmere’s promotion to the Football League, netting a crucial goal in their 2018 play-off final victory. His performances saw him make the step up to League One with Walsall, before moving on to Mansfield Town and eventually Bradford City.
Since arriving at Valley Parade, Cook has become the focal point of Bradford’s attack. With 76 goals in 175 appearances for the Bantams, he has been a consistent threat in front of goal. His fine form has continued into the 2024-25 season, with six goals and one assist in 12 appearances so far. Cook's predatory instincts and leadership in the final third make him a vital asset for Bradford City as they aim for success this season.
