PHIL Parkinson reckons City are the right club to further Reece Burke's education for now – and West Ham agree.

The 19-year-old Premier League centre half has been a big hit in his 11 games for the Bantams, who hope to hang on to him as long as they can and have just extended his youth loan by a further month.

Parkinson believes the current arrangement with the England under-20 international works well for both parties.

And he revealed how the Hammers, who gave Burke his top-flight bow in April, continue to keep close tabs on their rising talent.

The City boss said: "The best way I can describe Reece is that he has got an old head on young shoulders. He plays with a really calm and cool approach.

"He has been great for us, especially with the way he has come up here, got an apartment and settled in.

"It's his first time away from the south but it's great experience for him living on his own and being away from his family, although they do come up to most games."

Parkinson has regular contact with West Ham academy director Terry Westley, while City's head of sports science and fitness Nick Allamby compiles updates on his training regime.

The Bantams manager said: "Terry has been very good with us. I liaise with him about how Reece is doing in training as well as the games themselves.

"They watch him like we do when any of our players are loaned out. Nick does a report as well, which West Ham requested to detail the training he has been doing and the work in the gym.

"With loans it's so important you get players to the right club. We believe this has been beneficial for West Ham as well. That's why clubs now are so careful where they send players."

Burke has been an ever-present in League One since making his City debut at Barnsley in August.

The only game he has missed was the JP Trophy home defeat against the Tykes a fortnight ago because he was playing against Germany under-20s at the time.

Meanwhile, Paul Anderson hopes he can transfer to a lighter cast on his knee after seeing surgeon Steve Bollen tomorrow.

Physio Matt Barrass said: "Ando has still got another six weeks in a cast but if the specialist is happy with how it's healing, then he will change it.

"It's still a long way off. Those type of injuries are generally six months-plus."