Bradford City have today appointed Gary Bowyer as the club’s new manager.
The ex-Blackpool and Blackburn boss has put pen to paper on a contract which will see him take over the reins at City, initially, until the end of the season.
The 47-year-old guided former club Blackpool to promotion during his first season in charge at Bloomfield Road, before departing the Seasiders last year after 115 games at the helm.
Bowyer will take training for the first time this morning and arrives at the Northern Commercials Stadium alongside the Bantams' new assistant manager Andy Todd - the son of former City manager Colin Todd.
Bowyer said: “I am absolutely delighted to be here. This is a massive club and the opportunity to manage Bradford City doesn’t come along that often. It was one I had to take.
"I have been ready to get back into management for a while but it’s been about getting the right opportunity. This is a fantastic one for myself and for Andy (Todd).
“We are totally aware of the challenge that lies ahead but if I didn’t believe we couldn’t get out of this, I wouldn’t be here.
“That’s the most important thing. We have belief in the players and we are going to work very hard from now until the end of the season and concentrate on the games we have left.
“I remember coming here with Blackpool a couple of years back. It was the start of the season and the place was rocking.
“I speak to people who have managed here and know the supporters. They have said what a good club this is and the great fanbase it has - and what an impact they can have on the team when they get behind them.
“What I am really looking forward to is getting the stadium full and bouncing again.
“I have driven in today and been so excited coming in, it’s incredible. The challenge is something you’ve got to embrace.
“We will outline our demands to the players and what is expected from them. They are going to have to work very hard, stick together and have a right good go.
“As long as they do that, we will see where that takes us.”
City interim chief executive Julian Rhodes added: “Gary is a great addition and we are delighted to have him on board.
“He is determined to do all he can to keep us in League One. I am sure everyone will get behind him and Andy and give them the best possible chance of success.”
Todd has also agreed an initial short-term contract with the Bantams, having worked alongside Bowyer during a successful spell at Blackpool.