Report: Leeds United youngster Paudie O’Connor set for Bradford return

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Leeds United central defender Paudie O’Connor is set to rejoin Bradford City on loan, Football League World has revealed.

The Irishman played nine times for the club during the second half of last season, having previously spent time at Blackpool.

O’Connor didn’t disgrace himself during the temporary stint at Bradford and captained the side on several occasions.

The no-nonsense centre-back has four first-team appearances under his belt at Elland Road. Marcelo Bielsa, however, doesn’t see him as part of his plans next season and clearly feels another loan spell is required.

Bradford boss Gary Bowyer raved about O’Connor during last season.

He told the Telegraph and Argus: “He’s competitive and for someone so young he’s a good talker. He organises well and he’s been excellent.”

TBR Verdict

It is perhaps surprising that Leeds will allow O’Connor to go on loan once again, given the lack of central defenders at the club.

The 21-year-old could have a bright future and it was anticipated in some parts that he might get some of pre-season to make his mark.

That doesn’t look like being the case and he will hope to use his next spell away from Elland Road to earn himself a new deal at the club.

Limerick-born O’Connor is out of contract at Leeds next summer and knows he must perform if he is to earn reprieve at Leeds.