Crooks keen to land Bantams deal

The 26-year-old midfielder turned down a contract offer from The Tykes this summer and is now one of five players on trial at Valley Parade.

Despite the Bantams' financial difficulties, Crooks is still eager to earn a long-term deal with the Yorkshire outfit.

''I got a call a couple of weeks ago from Colin Todd,'' Crooks told the Telegraph and Argus.

''I went back to Barnsley to find out the situation there and then went straight down to Bradford.

''It's a good set-up, the training has been fantastic and the lads are great.

''It's just how the game has gone with clubs going into administration. It is difficult but you've just got to keep your head down, work hard and hope things come right.''

Bradford boss Colin Todd has confirmed his interest in taking Crooks on a full-time basis.

He said: ''Lee has the experience we're looking for. We're trying to do something with him but he knows the situation and there is nothing concrete at the moment.''

Meanwhile, former Wimbledon and Sunderland full-back Darren Holloway has emerged another transfer target.

Todd is known to be keen on adding experience to his squad and sees Holloway as an ideal candidate.

"Darren's not training with us but I've had a chat with him,'' he continued. ''Like the other players it is an on-going situation but all things being equal, I think that there is a very good possibility that we can get him.

"Wimbledon wanted to negotiate a new contract but I think he wants to get back up north."