Bradford City have completed the signing of defender Corey O'Keeffe from Barnsley. Manager Graham Alexander confirmed the deal, revealing contact was first made last week.
The Bantams currently sit 4th in the League One table with nine points from five games, a record of three wins and two losses. They are three points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday and have a positive goal difference, having scored five and conceded four so far this season.
Graham Alexander said that O'Keeffe's versatility was a key factor in the move. With Tyreik Wright currently injured, the manager wanted cover for both full-back positions rather than bringing in a specialist left-sided player. Alexander described the 25-year-old as a logical addition who provides important squad options.
"When Corey's name came up and we knew he could play both sides, it seemed a logical player to bring in," Alexander said. "He's at a good age and he was really motivated to come to us when we spoke to him." The manager added that the opportunity arose due to Barnsley's change in style under new boss Daniel Stendel.
Bradford's next fixture is an away trip to face Notts County on September 12th. The Bantams will be without several players. Goalkeeper Liam Roberts requires assessment, while Jon Russell is ruled out with a hamstring issue.
Stephen McLaughlin, who was withdrawn from the bench midweek, will also be checked after an ankle problem. Jordan Bowery continues to be monitored. Fans can check the latest availability on the club's official injuries page.
Individual player statistics for the 2026-27 campaign show a spread of contributions. Midfielder Antoni Sarcevic and defenders Macaulay Gillesphey and Ash Baldwin have each found the net once. Forward Bobby Pointon leads the team with five shots, four of which have been on target.
Defensively, goalkeeper Jon McCracken has kept three clean sheets in his five appearances. The full breakdown of individual performances is available in the club's stats section. The team's current standing, three points off the top, can be tracked via the live standings.
Speaking after the 2-1 home defeat to Cambridge United, Alexander expressed confidence in his group. He stated the club now has the numbers to compete until at least the January transfer window. The manager also confirmed that forward Stephen Humphreys remained at Valley Parade despite late interest from his former club Wigan Athletic.
"I believe we've got the numbers now to compete for the next four or five months until January at least," Alexander remarked. He added that losing a player at this stage would not adversely affect the squad. The focus now shifts to the away match at Notts County, who are 12th in the table.
