Bradford City sign former Limerick defender Paudie O'Connor from Leeds United

Bradford City have made permanent the signing of former Limerick defender Paudie O’Connor following his loan spell from Leeds United last season.

The 21-year-old made nine appearances for the Bantams after joining on loan in January but couldn't prevent Gary Bowyer's side finishing bottom of League One.

Limerick native O’Connor came through the ranks of his hometown club, making his senior debut in 2015, playing the whole 90 minutes of a 3-0 defeat to Bohemians.

He made 39 appearances for the Blues, scoring three goals and lifting the First Division title, before joining Leeds.

His time in England thus far has seen him enjoy loan spells with Blackpool, where he first worked with Bowyer, and Bradford.

“This is the best possible move for me," O'Connor told the Bantams' official website.

“Gary Bowyer and I have a great relationship. We compliment each other well and I understand his demands. He plays football the right way so it suits me down to the ground, signing for City.

“Being a leader comes with the way I play. I am always on the front foot. Over the coming three years I am desperate to be associated with success.

“Playing here at Valley Parade in front of the crowd is a great feeling. It played a big part in my decision to sign a long-term deal here.

“I will do all I can to help us get promoted. I have committed myself to the club and want to concentrate on my football.”

Bowyer added: “We are delighted to have secured Paudie on a permanent deal and look forward to seeing him develop even further.

“I signed him last year, at Blackpool, and everyone knows what I think of him as a player and a character. In my opinion, he has the desire and ability to play at a higher level.

“He displayed great leadership skills when we gave him the captain’s armband at the end of last season. We will need those qualities again in this difficult division.”