Bradford City reward Reece Staunton's progress with improved contract

The League Two Bantams have had to watch the pennies since the coronavirus pandemic, but it has not stopped them handing a new deal to homegrown central defender Reece Staunton.

The 18-year-old only agreed his first professional contract in December, but has impressed on the left side of central defence in the early-season matches.

Staunton was 15 years and 332 days old when he faced Rotherham United in his first professional game, a Football League Trophy match in November 2017. Stuart McCall was his manager then, and has since returned for another spell where he has been impressed by Staunton's progress.

“Reece has made a seamless transition into senior football this season and we have been really impressed by his approach towards any potential challenges he has been faced with,” he said.

“We are delighted to be able to offer him a long-term contract which we see as a reward for his hard work, consistency and attitude since turning professional.

“I am now looking forward to seeing how he continues to develop as a footballer and a person over the course of this season and beyond, because he is a player with great potential.”

For Staunton, it was a proud day.

“I am delighted to have signed a new contract at my hometown club,” he said. “To have done it so early into my professional career makes me and my family very proud.

“I have loved every minute of being in and around the first team so far this season and already feel very much a part of this great club.

“To be rewarded for hard work and commitment is very encouraging - for both myself and other young footballers coming through the academy here.

“I cannot wait to kick on further now my long-term future is secure and work towards achieving success at Bradford City, which would mean the world to me.”

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James Mitchinson