At the end of the 2018/2019 season, Bradford City were in turmoil. The Bantams slumped into League Two without a fight and a divide grew between the players, board, and the fans. As tensions rose, the board entrusted Gary Bowyer with the managerial job going into the 2019/20 season. Perhaps the biggest reason for this was his experience managing Blackpool during their own battle with problem owners. This has proven to be beneficial as the players sing his praises.
Gary Bowyer Has Had the Desired Effect at Bradford City
Toxic Atmosphere is Gone
There were rumours of discontent during Edin Rahic’s tenure. It was no secret that most of the players were unhappy. Some of those players have now left the club. Others, Shay McCartan for example, were close to doing so. Jake Reeves was another big-name signing that found his future in doubt. Reeves came as a highly rated midfielder, renowned for his endurance and silky passing ability. Both Reeves and McCartan were highly anticipated signings that had the weight of expectation on their shoulders.
However, Reeves, AFC Wimbledon’s former man of steel, succumbed to an injury. This injury niggled at Reeves consistently and recovery always seemed to evade him, with former manager David Hopkin letting his frustrations be known. Hopkin urged Reeves to “push through the pain” but ultimately the injury outlasted the Scotsman. Shay McCartan never settled in and struggled to perform to expectations. Whether that was due to the change in ownership or not, he looks twice the player under Gary Bowyer. However, both players are on the verge of a recovery. Reeves has recently made a comeback after a gruelling 22-month lay off, whilst McCartan looks to prove his worth to the club after his initial underwhelming performances.
Positive Approach of Gary Bowyer Transforming the Club
Gary Bowyer deserves praise for the revival of the club’s culture. Bowyer’s gentle approach seems to have worked wonders with the entire squad, not just Reeves. McCartan had his say on the change in the atmosphere in an interview with the club’s YouTube channel: “It’s a completely different club…the whole environment, its a lot more positive.” Bowyer has reversed the toxicity and the club is reaping the benefit of his managerial expertise. The revival of McCartan and Reeves may well herald a fresh beginning for Bradford.
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