THE Mark Hughes factor played its part in Dara Costelloe’s arrival at Valley Parade.
The 20-year-old Burnley forward has joined the Bantams on loan until the end of the season - snubbing higher-division interest.
The T&A understands that one Championship club and another from League One were keen on adding the Irish prospect, who has played six times for the Clarets.
But he chose a switch to City - and goes straight into contention to make his debut at Wimbledon.
There is a large Hughes connection involved in the move.
As well as Burnley boss Vincent Kompany, who Hughes brought to England in 2008, the Clarets loan manager is Charlie Adam, a Stoke stalwart under the Bantams boss.
And Costelloe’s agent is former player Stephen Ireland, who also featured in the Premier League for Hughes at Manchester City.
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