Bradford City forward Nick Powell has revealed he was on the verge of retiring from football at the age of 31. The 32-year-old, who joined the Bantams on a one-year deal in August, has since become a key impact substitute for the League One leaders.
"I was going to retire in January, it was a dark time for me," Powell said. He did not play between last September and April, but his perspective changed after signing with Bradford. Powell has featured as a substitute in all 11 of the club's games this season, scoring four times from the bench.
His latest contribution was a decisive double in Tuesday's 2-1 EFL Trophy win over Newcastle United's Under-21s. Powell equalised in the 59th minute before netting the winner 12 minutes later, securing a result that extends Bradford's winning run to five matches across all competitions. The club now sits first in League One, one point clear at the top with 15 points from seven games.
Manager Graham Alexander has praised Powell's ability to change games in short spells. "He would not always be a sub," Alexander said, acknowledging the forward's match-winning qualities. Powell himself is content with his role, believing he can influence proceedings even in a 30-minute cameo.
"I want more years," Powell added, indicating he may now play until he is 33 or 35. He conceded some past injury issues were self-inflicted but now says he is enjoying every moment, whether starting or coming off the bench. Powell started his career at Crewe Alexandra as a 16-year-old and had a high-profile move to Manchester United in 2012, but made only three Premier League appearances for the club before spells with Wigan, Stoke City and Stockport County.
His experience is now proving vital for a Bradford side in strong form. The team's next challenge is a home league fixture against Barnsley on Saturday, September 26. Barnsley currently occupy 18th place in the table. Fans can view the full fixtures list for the season ahead. Powell's story is a reminder of football's unpredictable turns, and his goals are helping to write a positive new chapter at Valley Parade.
