City's future is brighter than ever, according to the man in charge of their budding youngsters.

Centre of Excellence manager Peter Horne reckons the current crop of youngsters coming through the system have talent in abundance and is doubly excited as the majority are from Bradford.

"With seven apprenticeships out of eight being offered to local lads from within the Centre of Excellence programme, this is a wonderful achievement," he said.

"A programme like ours is judged on what comes out of it at 16 years and 18 years and this year has been a huge success at both levels.

"I am very confident though looking at players we have back down through the age groups that we can continue this as well."

Horne's report gives City fans further reason to be encouraged despite relegation into League Two.

The chief has praised the impact of coach Alan Nevison, who arrived at Valley Parade after five years service working in the Academy at Premier-ship champions Manchester United.

The innovative and experienced Nevison joined part-way during the campaign when Horne's department was reorganised due to Jon Pepper moving into his role with City's youth and reserves sides.

"Alan is, as I am, very passionate about the club, being a Bradford lad, and is a very strong person who believes in what he does," said Horne.

"It's been excellent having him on board. Alan works with all the younger groups up to 12 years old, including the development centres, leaving me more time to concentrate on the older ones and also support Jon Pepper wherever I can with what he does."

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