Julian Rhodes today reiterated City’s desire to keep Phil Parkinson for the long run after the in-demand boss rejected interest from Blackpool.

More Valley Parade contract talks are planned next week with Parkinson, who yesterday bolstered his squad with Southampton left back Ryan Dickson.

The 26-year-old defender will make his debut against Oxford this afternoon after joining on loan for the rest of the season, which also covers the play-offs if needed.

But Dickson’s first training session was overshadowed by the speculation linking Parkinson with Blackpool, which was finally put to bed last night by the manager.

Joint-chairman Rhodes confirmed that the Seasiders had asked for permission to speak with the Bantams boss about the vacancy created by Michael Appleton’s sudden departure for Blackburn.

Rhodes said: “Blackpool approached us on Thursday afternoon and within half an hour we had told Phil of their interest. That was the right thing to do.

“He knew the kind of salary that was on offer and most people would have been tempted. We can’t compete with Championship sides when it comes to wages.

“I spoke to Phil and his representative and left it with them – and his people have come back and said he doesn’t want to go.

“We’re in the middle of contraction negotiations but hopefully in the next week or two we may be in a position to announce an extension.

“While we can’t offer Phil big rewards in League Two, we can do as he takes up the divisions. We want to finally have that stability of a long-term contract.”

Parkinson took training as usual yesterday – amid ridiculous internet rumours that he had walked out – and was presented with the Performance of the Week award by Sky for the 3-1 win over Aston Villa.

Dickson also got his first feel of the place as he prepares to come straight in for James Meredith, whose illness is taking time to clear.

He has not featured for Saints in the Premier League this season but he has previously played for Brentford and had loan spells with Yeovil and Leyton Orient.

City number two Steve Parkin said: “Ryan’s a forward-thinking full back and we’re sure he’ll fit in nicely.

“He has been playing reserve-team football and games behind closed doors and there’s not an ounce of fat on him.

“Obviously we had a worry (at left back) because Mezza is still poorly. Curtis Good put in a hell of a performance there the other night but we were worried about his legs.

“Ryan’s a player we’ve always been aware of but, without being disrespectful, we never thought he would want to drop to our level coming from a Premier League club.

“But the lad absolutely jumped at the opportunity, which is the reaction you want to see.

“He’s obviously seen the Villa game on the TV and there were no qualms about coming up here and joining us. Phil’s delighted and it’s another good signing in a good week.”