Bradford (Park Avenue) bring Will Calligan back to Horsfall

Initially signed by Mark Bower last summer, Calligan only made a handful of appearances before departing at the end of September to join Brighouse Town.

Bower admitted at the time that he was reluctant to lose the young talent, but that the club’s finances had played a part in the defender’s exit.

But almost exactly a year later, Calligan is back at Horsfall.

Simon Richman's return to Bradford (Park Avenue) last September spelled the end to Will Calligan's first spell at the club. (Image: John Rhodes.)

Adept at playing at full-back or on the wing, Calligan brings versatility and a proven track record of development throughout his career.

Calligan joined Barnsley’s academy in January 2014, signing as a first-year scholar in July 2018.

Comfortable in possession and tenacious in the tackle, Calligan has showcased his ability to seamlessly link defence to attack, and he is composed in front of goal.

His fine performances earned him a couple of appearances for Barnsley’s U23s at the end of the 2018/19 Professional Development League campaign.

Notably, he kick-started his first full season at U23s level by scoring on the opening day of the 2020/21 campaign in a hard-fought 2-1 defeat against Nottingham Forest, the reigning champions.

Since he left Bradford (Park Avenue) last September, Calligan has had spells at Brighouse, Stockport Town, FC United of Manchester, and Bury FC.

He also joined Emley on a dual registration deal, and has continued to hone his defensive and attacking skills at all of those clubs.

He also played in this summer’s pre-season for Avenue, where he featured under the name “Trialist A.”

He scored a penalty in one of those games, further highlighting his calmness under pressure.

Avenue manager Craig Elliott said: “I’m delighted to bring Will in as he will give us much-needed balance down the left-hand side.

“He will bring energy and quality deliveries in the final third, which I feel has been lacking since I came in.

“I know he has been here before and knows a few of the lads, and I see that as a positive because he can settle in quickly.”