NIALL Canavan has been named as Bradford City's new club captain for the 2021/22 season.

The 30-year-old joined Valley Parade from League One Plymouth Argyle last January and has excelled ever since making 16 league appearances.

The Leeds-born 6ft 4in central defender was in the City academy up to the age of 12 and went to St Mary’s School in Menston.

Spells at Scunthorpe and Rochdale were followed by a move to Argyle where he played 92 times and achieved a promotion.

Canavan replaces goalkeeper Richard O'Donnell who wore the armband last season.

He said: “It is a massive honour to be named captain, and a very proud moment for myself and my family.

“I am a talker on the pitch, and will look to lead vocally - as well as leading by example in my actions.

“I cannot wait to lead the boys out for the first time tomorrow, especially now supporters are back.

“I am hoping that, as a group, we can have a successful season and achieve our ambitions of getting promoted.”

Bantams boss Derek Adams, who had coached Canavan in the past, said: “Niall is a player I obviously know very well, from our time together at Plymouth Argyle.

“The decision was a difficult one to make, as we have a lot of leaders and winners in the squad, who are capable of wearing the armband.

“In Niall, though, I have immense confidence and have no doubt over his ability to lead his team-mates - on and off the field - where we will hopefully have 11 players putting their body on the line for the club.”