New coach Collins key factor in persuading Scannell to switch to Bradford City

The 27-year-old’s capture on a two-year deal is a major coup for the Bantams, who faced considerable competition for someone with more than 300 Championship appearances to his name.

Following on from the arrival of proven performers such as Jack Payne and Hope Akpan, Scannell’s decision to join has helped further lift the gloom that had descended on Valley Parade in recent months.

“I was made aware that Bradford City and a few other clubs had shown interest in me,” said the Londoner, who until yesterday was Huddersfield’s longest-serving player. “Though I was quick to choose this club.

“I am extremely happy to be here and cannot wait to get going. I have spoken at length to Michael Collins and he has discussed the way in which he wants the team to play, which is a massive attraction for me. The style excites me.

“There is a huge amount of history and ambition at this club. I have seen the stadium and the new pitch, which looks fantastic, and I know this is the right move for me.”

Scannell is Bradford’s 12th signing of the close season as the new management team of Collins, Greg Abbott and Martin Drury continue to bed in.

“I am very pleased with the recruitment and we are working on a few others,” added the 32-year-old head coach, who has made an enquiry to Burton Albion about Matty Lund.

“Whenever you speak to anyone and mention the name Bradford City it wakes them up and they show an interest. We are lucky in that sense, but we have also been very careful. We do our due diligence on players, get the right characters and the quality right for this club.

“We are a big club in the division, there are no two ways about it. We will be a scalp for a lot of teams so we need those characters who can come in and handle playing at Valley Parade in front of 15,000.

“They have got to have the ability to express themselves and not go under when times get a little bit difficult. That happens in any season, it doesn’t matter whether you are top of the league or at the bottom.”

Heading out of Valley Parade yesterday was former captain Romain Vincelot, who has joined Crawley Town.