Bradford City won't hurry new deal with in-form striker Cook

The Bantams target man is enjoying a prolific start to the season - averaging a goal a game from his 11 appearances.

Cook has hit five in the last three games to spearhead the current winning run for Mark Hughes’ men.

Cook, who turns 32 next month, is out of contract at the end of the season. He signed a two-year deal when he became Derek Adams’ first recruit in June 2021.

But Hughes has no plans right now to fast-track any negotiations over the striker’s future.

“It’s not something we’ve discussed as yet but we’re aware of every player’s circumstance,” he said.

“We’re quite understanding of the situation. A lot of players at this level are going into their final year.

“That’s where the power changes. Usually when there’s a length to a contract, the clubs have more power, so to speak, in terms of the future for the player.

“But when it gets to the end, then the player is in a stronger position. It’s a little bit unusual but it’s the norm at this level.

“I think there’s an acceptance that decisions are made come the end of the season. Players accept that and are either happy to stay at the club or move on.

“I think players at League Two level accept that’s how the situation is resolved one way or the other.

“It’s not what I’ve been used to in the past but you can see the benefits as well as the negatives to it.”

Cook’s eight league goals puts him two behind the division’s top scorer, Sam Hoskins of Northampton.

But only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, with 14, has netted more in all competitions than the Bantams man.

Hughes added: “You can see Cooky’s enjoying himself.

“He’s a confidence guy. When he’s playing well and he’s confident and scoring goals, then he’s good fun to be around.

“On other occasions, when he’s out the team or not scoring, he probably worries more than most.

“It will always turn around for Cooky because he tries to do the right things every single day and that all helps to regain form.

“When he’s playing well and scoring, he’s difficult to stop as you can see at the moment.

“We’ve got to try and make sure that he’s in that situation for a long time.”

Cook’s form has limited summer signing Vadaine Oliver to a bench role so far.

But Hughes insists that the former Gillingham target man, who has come in on a three-year deal, is playing his part by keeping the number nine on his toes.

“Vadaine’s still trying to build his form himself,” said the City boss. “It’s difficult when I’m just giving him little cameos at the end of games.

“But you can see that he’s understanding what we’re about. We probably play differently than teams he’s been at before.

“But he’s a good player and it’s no coincidence that Cooky is playing as well as he is and scoring as many as he is because of the competition for places that he recognises. It’s a good thing to have.”