Bradford City v Peterborough United: Hanson firmly back on track for Bantams

PHIL PARKINSON has revealed how a course of steroids in the summer has helped James Hanson finally banish the back problems that had dogged the Bradford City striker.
Bradford City manager Phil ParkinsonBradford City manager Phil Parkinson
Bradford City manager Phil Parkinson

The 26-year-old saw the final two months of last season ruined by injury after playing through the pain barrier.

Hanson started just one of the final nine games, leaving the Bantams desperate to find a cure.

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A two-goal start to 2014-15 in the dramatic 3-2 win over Coventry City suggested the striker was back on track, a belief that has been given further fuel by three all-action performances as Bradford eased through to the Capital One Cup second round and maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign.

Parkinson said: “James showed what he is all about on the opening day against Coventry.

“He got two great headed goals – goals that I would say are as good as you are going to see.

“He is in really good physical shape and we are reaping the benefits.

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“He underwent a course of steroids in the summer to clear up the problem he had been having with his back. It has done the trick and we are delighted because James is such a big part of our team. Hopefully, he can have a totally injury-free season.

“There are not many players like James out there. He is strong, powerful and mobile. That is a great combination.

“I would say people often under-estimate his mobility. This is a big season for him.”

Alongside Hanson, Aaron Mclean will be hoping to make a big impression today against a club where he excelled earlier in his career.

The former Hull City striker netted 71 league goals in 157 appearances for Posh before moving to the KC in January, 2011, for £1.3m.