Bradford City striker Andy Cook has vowed he ‘will be back’ following his ACL injury earlier this year. The club has been without the forward since January 2025, leaving fans eagerly awaiting news of his recovery and potential return to the pitch.
Cook, 34, has been a key player for the Bantams over recent years. He is under contract at Valley Parade until the summer of 2026, which gives him the luxury of time as he progresses through his rehabilitation. In an interview with BBC Radio Leeds on March 24, 2025, he shared an optimistic update on his condition, declaring, “I will be putting that number nine shirt back on, that is for definite. I will be back, that is a fact. I can’t wait because there is nothing better than playing in front of this crowd here at Valley Parade.”
He continued, reflecting on the challenges of being sidelined: “I found it difficult at first, obviously I want the lads to win and go in the right direction which we have been but it’s hard sitting in the crowd. You go from playing week in and week out scoring goals to now my season done. But it makes my life easier rehabbing and coming to games when the lads are doing well. I’m coming to work and doing what I can do and the lads are doing what they can do and that makes me happy.”
Bradford City signed Cook back in 2020 to bolster their attacking options. Since then, he has made a significant impact, netting 85 goals in 192 appearances for the Bantams, including 12 goals this season alone. This remarkable scoring record has endeared him to the club's supporters, who will be thrilled at the prospect of his return.
Before joining Bradford, Cook rose through the ranks at Carlisle United without making a first-team appearance. He later joined Barrow, where he had two separate spells, interspersed with a stint at Grimsby Town. From 2016 to 2018, he showcased his abilities at Tranmere Rovers in the National League, scoring 51 goals across 97 matches. Cook continued his journey through Walsall and Mansfield Town before finding a home at Bradford where he has been instrumental to their success.
Currently, Bradford City is sitting in 2nd place in the League Two table, just one point behind Walsall as they push for promotion. The team is five points clear within the top three, which is a promising position as they look to secure a spot in the next tier of English football. A recent 4-1 victory over Colchester United has boosted morale as the team approaches the finale of the season, with only eight fixtures remaining.
There’s been much speculation about whether Bradford City can maintain their position. Fans feel optimistic as they observe the teammates rallying together, particularly in light of Cook's determination to return and have a positive influence on the pitch once more. It’s clear his spirit infuses confidence into both the players and the supporters, showcasing the crucial role he plays in not just scoring goals but also uplifting team morale.
In addition to Cook's journey, this past weekend featured significant developments across the League Two landscape. Both Bradford City and Port Vale emerged as the only winners within the top six teams of the league. Meanwhile, Wimbledon, currently in third place, faced a setback, failing to maintain a two-goal lead against Barrow which resulted in a draw.
Matty Stevens, a player for Wimbledon, remains optimistic about their chances. He stated: “We’ve just got to make sure when we’re in that position again – which I believe we will be because we’re such a good team – we manage it better and come away with the three points.” Turning their attention to Walsall, Wimbledon is gearing up for a crucial upcoming match that could impact their pursuit of promotion. The teams in contention understand the importance of every game as the season draws to a close.
Barrow, coming off their recent dramatic victory with an 89th-minute goal by Ronan Curtis against Morecambe, is also positioned to assist Bradford in achieving their promotion dreams. They’re scheduled to face Port Vale shortly, and a strong performance could shift the standings in favor of Bradford City.
Bradford City’s upward momentum reflects a collective effort from the players, coaching staff, and loyal fans rallying together. Cook’s impending return adds another layer to the team's ambitions, highlighting the depth of talent and leadership within the squad. Fans are not just watching a club; they are witnessing a journey that might culminate in promotion.
As the league approaches the final stretch, the anticipation grows. With every match being a vital opportunity to solidify their standing, players like Cook know the stakes. His returning presence could be the key element in Bradford's quest for success, as both the club and its supporters dream of what lies ahead.
