Grimsby Town's stance on Bradford City hero Andy Cook after internal 'talks'
Grimsby Town are reportedly keen on retaining Bradford City hero Andy Cook beyond the end of the current campaign.
The 35-year-old was loaned out by the Bantams in the winter window, seemingly marking the end of his time at the club with his contract due to expire in the summer.
He returned to Grimsby, who previously employed the marksman between 2012 and 2014.
Cook has proven to be a shrewd loan signing for the Mariners having registered five goals in 14 league appearances.
Andy Cook claim emerges
According to SportsBoom, the League Two promotion hopefuls would like to get Cook on board permanently in the summer.
It has been suggested that talks over the veteran’s future have been held between club chiefs, with free agent status looming.
Grimsby do not yet know which division they will be competing in but even if they do reach the third tier, Cook’s experience could prove valuable.
Andy Cook’s hero status at Bradford City
The forward’s name will forever be etched into the Bradford history books, with Cook having been a talismanic frontman for the Bantams.
He has made a total of 205 appearances for the club, scoring 88 goals and registering 24 assists.
After sealing his loan exit in January, the vetern said: "The last five years have been nothing short of unbelievable. This place has been my home and saying goodbye is incredibly heartbreaking.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you to every single one of you for the love and support you have shown me throughout my time here, both on and off the pitch. It never went unnoticed and is something I will carry with me forever."
Bradford’s CEO Ryan Sparks, meanwhile, hailed Cook as a “wonderful servant”.
He said: "Andy joined us at a very difficult time and, along with several others, helped turn that particular season around and save the club from an almost unthinkable relegation.
"Following that, it is safe to say he went on to bigger and better things in claret and amber. His goal record speaks for itself and he has been a wonderful servant for our football club and will never be forgotten.
"Andy showed real bravery to return from an injury which would have been career-ending for many. We thank Andy for his incredible contributions to Bradford City and wish him and his family all the best.”