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.