Bradford City transfer latest: Legend Andy Cook completes move to League Two outfit - and issues 'heartbreaking' farewell message
BRADFORD City legend Andy Cook has completed his move to League Two outfit Grimsby Town – having linked up with the Mariners for the rest of the season on loan.
Cook, 35, spent five years at City, having initially joined on loan in 2021.
Out of contract this summer, the north-easterner made 205 appearances for the club, scoring 88 goals. He is the club’s fourth all-time record goalscorer behind Bobby Campbell, Frank O’Rourke and James Hanson.
His peak arrived in 2022-23, when he netted 31 times en route to being crowned as top-scorer in League Two in a campaign which saw him also win the PFA League Two player-of-the-season award and earn a place in the Team of the Season.
Last season, he scored 15 goals before a season-ending knee injury at Barrow on New Year’s Day 2025. Cook made his first-term return in September.
Addressing supporters after leaving City, Cook – who links back up with one of his old clubs in Grimsby – 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."
City CEO Ryan Sparks commented: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Andy for his services to Bradford City; having spent almost five years with the club and achieved so much.
"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.”