Martin Drury has been with the club since 2016, however, in the last twelve months has been actively involved on a day-to-day basis within the academy coaching structure. Martin will now lead on the progression and development of all our young players.
As part of the club's ongoing commitment to providing the best possible pathway for players, Martin brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in developing young footballers. Discussing his new role, Martin commented:
’In simple terms, it is my responsibility, along with the coaching staff, to ensure the transition from the under 18's to the first team is as seamless as possible.
"We want to make sure players are given the opportunity to progress as soon as they’re ready”
After being forced to retire from playing at the age of 28 due to a serious knee injury, Martin has developed into a highly focused and dedicated coach, earning his UEFA “A” Licence in 2017. Having originally joined the Bantams during the 2016/17 season, he has already progressed through the ranks and most recently worked alongside Michael Collins to coach our promising U18 squad.
Chairman Edin Rahic believes this new challenge for Drury represents a step in the right direction for the club, and welcomed Martin to his new role:
“Martin is a top young coach, who we believe can have a positive impact on the pathway for young players at the club.
“We want Bradford City to be a club which attracts talented young players, and give them the best possible chance of making it in the professional game.
"Having Martin in this position means we will be able to monitor the progress of all our young players from the under nine age group right up to the young professionals”
Martin will work closely with our new head coach and assistant head coach to provide a holistic view of all our academy prospects. This is something the club believes to be a vital link in providing a pathway for players. Edin continued:
“It’s important for someone close to our head coach to have knowledge of all the players in the system.
"The first-team head coach will, of course, be primarily focussed on developing his squad, but Martin will be able to provide information on all the up and coming players, in every position, at every age group”
A key part of the club’s long-term strategy is to provide a pathway for young players, and ultimately see these players evolve into first-team regulars. Martin believes this is a “very positive” step, and feels that the club’s journey is something to be excited about:
“It’s very positive for sure. It’s a great signal of intent from the club to the community. Whilst we want to recruit the best young players available, we also want to bring local lads through the door and eventually into the first-team.
“We want to find a different way of working, whereby everyone at the club works together to create a real pathway for talent.
"This is from the part-time academy coaches right through to the first-team. We’re already attracting players who have had real interest from other clubs but have chosen to sign for Bradford City.
"This can only be a positive step for the club in the long-term”
The Lead Development Coach role was previously held by Sam Collins, however, Sam has been increasingly occupied by first-team duties in the last few months.
The structure of our first-team coaching staff will be finalised once a head coach is appointed. At this time the roles of Steve Banks (Goalkeeper Coach), Sam Collins (First-Team Coach) and Chris Short (Fitness Coach) will be clarified.