Bradford City should consider u-turn on 37-year-old amid current Valley Parade saga | OneFootball

The Bantams still have former defender Paul Huntington to turn to if player shortage persists in League One.

Bradford City may turn to veteran defender Paul Huntington amid injury struggles in the squad.

The Bantams could have former defender to call upon if their defensive injury woes continue. The 36-year-old was brought in last season by manager Graham Alexander and featured a handful of times, eventually achieving League Two promotion.

Now, as league football resumes and City prepare for the challenges of a higher division, Huntington is among the faces that Bradford should turn to during the shortage.

Huntington’s presence was crucial in the club’s success last campaign despite sporadic appearances. In his 22 games in claret and amber the defender was reliable, cutting an assured figure at the back. Additionally, Huntington’s experience across the football league will have been invaluable to Graham Alexander and his team, including young players like Bobby Pointon.

Huntington cuts an experienced figure in the EFL

In a career spanning nearly two decades, Huntington had previously featured at Carlisle, Preston, Yeovil, Stockport, Leeds and Newcastle before joining Bradford. He has made a whopping 520 appearances in that time, asserting his veteran status.

After originally being released in May, Huntington was given the opportunity to train with the club during the off-season. While favours of this kind are something seen right across the football world, it certainly leaves the door open.

Speaking to the Telegraph and Argus, Alexander confirmed that the defender was still with the club.

The Bradford boss has always spoken kindly of the defender, but will also be aware that the club is running out of space in their squad to allow for more incomings. Perhaps Alexander would rather fill his squad with a signing that would have a bigger role to play this year.

Bradford injury worries leave the door open for Huntington

As of this moment, Bradford are depleted, feeling these shortcomings in defence especially. Last week, it was discovered that centre-back Neill Byrne would miss at least two months of the season, while Ciaran Kelly remains a doubt after a groin injury during pre-season. Aden Baldwin also misses the opening fixture after his red card for arguing with the referee against Doncaster at the end of 2024/25, something that still plagues his reputation with the supporters.

If Alexander feels that support is needed, Huntington is waiting in the wings. A potential return would likely be on a short-term basis, reflecting what would be a return of the pre-season favour in Huntington’s view. Because of his experience, the player could also step into a role that mirrors Colin Doyle, who has retired from professional football to transition into Bradford’s first team coaching setup.

The fact that Huntington has stuck around after the expiry of his contract highlights the strong relationship he has with the team and Alexander, who undoubtedly values his continuing contribution.

It is hard to say that anything currently suggests that a Huntington return is imminent, and if he is to leave, it will be with the club’s best wishes, and thanks for his service. Having said that, he should definitely be an option if needs must, and a reliable one too.