Bradford City’s Ben Richards-Everton has galvanised the once ailing defence. During a dark period of ownership, Bradford’s team seemed to regress in quality game by game. The defending became comical and would often see two or three goals conceded without resistance. Bradford fans became numbed to the capitulation from a squad devoid of confidence, leadership, and quality. However, after the relegation-reset button was pushed, the hierarchy at Bradford made some big changes.
Ben Richards-Everton is Bradford City’s New Centre-Back Star
Defensive Heritage
The defence of 2018/2019 was a stark contrast to the backline that Bradford fans have been used to in recent years. Under Phil Parkinson and Stuart McCall, City’s defenders were chosen for character and physicality. Andrew Davies and Stephen Darby are two players that epitomised the character that Bradford City moulded into their team. Stuart McCall’s Bradford team followed this template in their play-off final campaign. Gary Bower brought in players with height, pace, and power shaking up the squad with 12 new signings.
The Ben Richards-Everton Effect
Ben Richards-Everton has transformed the shaky Bradford City defence in a remarkable way. The 27-year-old is one of the new signings that joined during the much-needed overhaul of the squad. With most of the attention falling onto the new-look attack of James Vaughan and Clayton Donaldson, the influence of the gigantic Richards-Everton must also be recognised. The 6’5 defender has showcased just what City have been missing in defence, displaying leadership that has lacked last season. Richards-Everton is also willing to take the ball forward from defence, giving a new dimension to the City backline.
Offering towering height, gritty-determination, and a willingness to put his body on the line its a breath of fresh air to the City faithful. The loss against Forest Green Rovers was disheartening, to say the least. Displaying turgid football, the travelling team frustrated home supporters. However, another inspired performance saw Ben Richards-Everton continue his audition to the Bradford City fans. The defender has looked superb in the opening games, marshalling his teammates, flying into challenges and dominating aerial battles. If he continues in this fashion, he could well be a fan favourite for years to come.
Bradford’s next game is an away trip to Crewe Alexandra on Saturday the 31st of August. The League table is beginning to take shape after the first five games and the Bantams will be eager to add to their tally.
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