Bradford City is thrilled to announce that Andy Cook, the winner of the prestigious Golden Boot in the 2022/23 Sky Bet League Two season, has committed to the club by signing a new three-year contract.
Having emerged as the top goalscorer for City in the previous season, netting an impressive 31 goals across all competitions and providing eight assists, Cook has now put pen to paper on a deal that will keep him at the University of Bradford Stadium until the summer of 2026.
Initially joining on loan in January 2021, Cook showcased his striking abilities by scoring eight goals during the remainder of the 2020/21 campaign. His impressive performances earned him a permanent move to Valley Parade in June 2021.
Continuing his prolific form, the seasoned forward added 12 more goals in the 2021/22 season, bringing his total tally for the Bantams to 51 goals in 115 appearances. Last season’s remarkable feat of 31 goals in all competitions established Cook as only the sixth player in City’s history to achieve such a milestone in a single season, while also securing the title of the league’s top scorer.
Expressing his delight, Cook exclaimed, “I am buzzing, over the moon to be here for another three years. I think everyone close to me knows this is where I want to be playing my football. I am delighted to have got it sorted as quickly as I have. I did have options elsewhere, but I wanted to stay here and help propel us to where we should be. I want to finish the business we started last season and pick up where I left off on a personal note.”
Cook emphasised the significance of the fans and their unwavering support, stating, “The idea of playing in front of all these fans again was a big factor. The team togetherness and connection with them is something we all want to continue. They are so important, and hopefully, we can give them something to shout about at the end of next season. When you look at the potential of the club, we know we can be in a higher division. Over the next few years, I want to be able to help us achieve that.”
Mark Hughes, the manager of the Bantams, expressed his delight in securing Cook’s services for an extended period, saying, “We are delighted to have tied Andy down for another three years and are looking forward to having him with us again for pre-season. His stats not only this season but over the two and a half years he has spent at the club so far, speak for themselves. He is a very dangerous striker whose importance to our side is huge.”
Hughes also highlighted the competitive interest in Cook, adding, “With a number of clubs chasing his signature at this level and above, it was important we acted quickly to secure Andy’s services. To have his deal sorted at this early stage is a huge boost.”
The Bantams boss concluded with a message of anticipation, “I know he cannot wait to see all of you back out at Valley Parade again, and we are looking forward to hopefully seeing him replicate his excellent goalscoring form this season.”
Andy Cook’s commitment to Bradford City has brought great joy to both the club and its fans, who eagerly await the return of football action, hoping to witness his remarkable goal-scoring prowess once again.
