Bradford sign midfielder O'Leary

Bradford City manager Stuart McCall has added to his midfield options with the capture of trialist Steven O'Leary on a short-term contract.

O'Leary, 24, has impressed since his arrival at the League Two club and his performances in pre-season have moved McCall to offer him a contract.

The deal will run until 3 January, but the Bantams boss says the move will work well for both parties.

"It's what we could afford and it means he can prove himself," said McCall.

After cost-cutting measures saw an exodus from Valley Parade, McCall has been trying to balance his squad with a mix of youth and experience, epitomised by the arrival of 28-year-old Huddersfield Town midfielder Michael Flynn on a one-year deal, and a three month deal for 19-year-old James O'Brien on Tuesday.

And O'Leary's arrival is the perfect deal to suit both the player and the club.

"I think the player would have hoped for more (money) and also the length of the contract," McCall told BBC Radio Leeds.

"I think he would have hoped for a year, but it gives him the opportunity to come knock on my door at Christmas and ask for an 18-month deal or more money.

"If he does that he will have deserved it. He now has to fight for a longer contract," added McCall.

Meanwhile Peter Thorne, 36, has been announced as the club captain for the new season. The veteran forward, who has been the club's top scorer for the last two seasons will wear the armband for the first time in Saturday's League Two opener at Notts County.