DARA Costelloe couldn’t buy a goal during his half-season spell with City.

But he returns to Valley Parade this weekend in scoring mood.

Costelloe joined the Bantams on loan from Burnley in January 2023 as Mark Hughes leaned on his friendship with Vincent Kompany to attract a young striker the Clarets had high hopes for.

While Andy Cook was scoring goals for fun on the way to the League Two golden boot, Costelloe never managed to break his duck in 11 attempts and just over 12 hours of football for the club.

He went close but chances came and went – three going begging against Hartlepool in what proved his final home outing.

Costello was loaned out again last season to St Johnstone and did score his first goal in Scotland against Livingston. But that was his sole success from 29 appearances.

His fortunes, though, seem to be turning in east Lancashire.

Dara Costelloe having a laugh with Dion Pereira before City's play-off semi-final second leg at Carlisle in May 2023Dara Costelloe having a laugh with Dion Pereira before City's play-off semi-final second leg at Carlisle in May 2023 (Image: PA)

Accrington took him on loan from their neighbours in the summer – and have been rewarded with five goals so far.

The 21-year-old scored four in three games at the start of last month before adding to his tally in Tuesday’s eventful 2-2 draw at Wimbledon.

A spectacular stoppage-time equaliser from home midfielder James Tilley denied Stanley the victory as the hosts hit back with two late goals to salvage a point.

But Accrington – and Costelloe – still head over the Pennines in good spirits on the back of a six-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

John Doolan’s side were bottom at the start of last month and it took until their ninth game to register a first league win.

But they are now 16th and looking upwards despite the late blow in midweek.

Doolan told the club website: “It was disappointing because we were in a really strong position winning 2-0 and they’ve ended up coming back.

“But I can only be proud of my players.

“It’s easy for me to start pointing fingers. They are going to make mistakes and it’s my job not to let heads get too down.

“But we have to lick our wounds and move on quick.

“We know the challenges Bradford are going to pose and we’ll be ready for that.”