The supporters of Bradford Park Avenue, who feared a mass exodus once the club announced budget cuts, will be boosted by news that James Knowles has committed himself to Horsfall Stadium.

Rumours were rife that most of last season’s first- team squad were destined for the exit door but many have remained.

Fans began to fear the worst when hardly any were involved in the first friendly but Martin Drury skipped Avenue in Saturday’s defeat to Droylsden and Knowles returned to the centre of defence.

Bradford boss Simon Collins confirmed after the game that Knowles was on board.

He said: "James accepted terms today, so I think we can be sure that he is still our player and that is great news.

"I’m delighted that James is signing and that a lot of the other players have come back after the close season. We are still working on the squad and checking the players who are here on trial.

"We can’t keep all of the people we have here at the moment and we are still talking with the likes of Kevin Sanasay and David Brown.

"The squad will be trimmed down to about 16 or 17, and that is what these friendlies are all about.

"Obviously they are to develop fitness, match sharpness and try systems but there is something to play for, even though results mean nothing."

Collins is looking forward to having a free midweek to work with the players on the training ground.

They were due to host Harrogate Town tonight but that game has been moved to Saturday, August 7.