BRADFORD GET THEIR RE-WARD
The Yorkshire outfit only managed to score 38 league goals during the 1999-2000 campaign and will be looking for Ward to supply the cutting edge that they so badly lacked last season.
However, the former Barnsley striker only managed to score eight times in 37 appearances during a disappointing season for Rovers last year. He will have to sharpen up his eye for goal if he is to prove a bargain buy, as fellow forward Carbone has a tendency to suffer bouts of inconsistency.
With an on-going injury crisis at Ewood Park throughout much of last season, Ward played alongside a number of attacking partners, but without enough time to forge a reasonable understanding with any of them. But the much-travelled marksman was full of running and always contributed 100% to the team effort.
The 29-year-old tested the ability of opposing keepers with a number of drives from range, whilst also demonstrating a deadly potency from within the penalty box - seven of his goals coming from close range last season. Ward displayed an appetite for the big occasion with an impressive brace against eventual Division One champions Charlton in 2-1 victory at the Valley, a quality that may need to be augmented at grounds such as Old Trafford and Highbury.
Confident running with the ball at his feet, Ward embarked upon numerous dribbles and runs, enabling him to beat his man and whip in dangerous crosses. Combined with strength in the air, the Bradford faithful may feel that they have the consistent striker that they have been starved of since their promotion to the top-flight two years ago, when Lee Mills had a prolific season in front of goal.
The Bantams now boast a wealth of Premiership experience amongst their ranks and will be aiming to build on last season's narrow escape from the clutches of relegation. Ward will be hoping to play an integral part in this resurgence as he aims to make his mark at the tenth league club of his career.
