Due to the COVID-19 lockdown, normal has been thrown clear out of the window and replaced by uncertainty. Deadlines have fallen by the wayside as more important matters take over. One of those was the announcement of the ‘released and retained’ lists.
These lists were due about a fortnight ago but, amid the chaos of coronavirus, clubs have other pressing matters. Bradford City announced their list earlier on the club website and it was something written about here on The72.
Ten players have been released from Valley Parade with their current deals not being extended. Come June 30, these players will be free agents and available for other clubs to cherrypick as per their requirements.
Amongst these 10 names that will be leaving the club, June 30 are three players who have played more than a bit-part this season: Kevin Mellor, Shay McCartan and Hope Akpan.
Kevin Mellor (free transfer from Blackpool): Mellor inked a two-year deal on joining the Bantams at the end of July 2018. His 25 League Two appearances (one goal/one assist) this season are part of 89 total Bantams appearances (three goals/three assists) over his time at Valley Parade.
Hope Akpan (free transfer from Burton Albion): Like Mellor, Akpan inked a two-year contract when joining City in early July 2018. The former Everton youth player made 19 appearances (three goals) this season for the Bantams. These were part of 54 games (six goals/one assist) for City during his time at the club.
Shay McCartan (£200,000 from Accrington Stanley): Northern Ireland international McCarten signed for the Bantams at the opening of the July 2017 transfer window. His time at City has seen him make 50 appearances (eight goals/one assist) with him making 21 appearances (four goals) in this seasons League Tow campaign.
