Parkinson gets closer to squad satisfaction

The Bantams yesterday captured Mark Yeates following his release by Watford. The 28-year-old has signed a two-year deal to become Parkinson’s second signing in as many days after the arrival of Jason Kennedy on Tuesday.

Adding to Parkinson’s satisfaction is agreement having been reached with Nathan Doyle over a new one-year deal, just as he had with defender Carl McHugh the previous night.

The City manager said: “It has been a pleasing couple of days as we look to continue building towards the new season. I feel we are getting there now in terms of how I want the squad to look and I’d say we only need a couple more.”

A goalkeeper is high on Parkinson’s shopping list following Matt Duke’s departure to Northampton Town. He added: “We will spend the time necessary to do what we want to do.”

On yesterday’s agreeing of a new deal for Doyle and the capture of Yeates, Parkinson added: “I always felt confident Nathan would stay. He had been away and has got married. Because things weren’t quite done, he wasn’t there for the first couple of days of pre-season but Nathan is raring to go now.

“He did well for us last season and brings versatility, something we need when working, as we did last season, with a small, tight-knit squad.

“Mark brings balance, is a very creative player and good at set-pieces.”

Meanwhile, Doncaster Rovers have signed Brentford’s attacking midfielder Harry Forrester.

The 22-year-old joined the Bees in 2011 after failing to make a senior appearance for Aston Villa. He played 48 times for Brentford last season, scoring 11 goals.

Brentford, who offered Forrester a new deal, will be entitled to a fee due to the player being under 24.

The Yorkshire derby between Sheffield Wednesday and Huddersfield Town at Hillsborough on Saturday, November 23 has been brought forward to 12.15pm and screened live by Sky TV.