Football Season Guide

Derek Adams made a brave decision to leave Morecambe, barely a week after sealing promotion to League One, and take over something of a poisoned chalice at Valley Parade. Bradford City are undoubtedly a sleeping giant, especially in League Two, whose fanbase and finances are something which the Shrimps could only dream about. The fact that his former club are now a league higher reinforces the Bantams fall from grace. Adams is certainly a single-minded, drive man and clearly wasn’t concerned about any accusations of disloyalty, having been given the chance of redemption after losing his job at Plymouth Argyle. He also won promotion to League One with the Devonians and it’s all about completing the hat-trick in this part of West Yorkshire. There has only been one real departure of note with defender Anthony O’Connor ironically joining Morecambe this summer. Midfielder Yann Songo’o has followed Adams wherever he has managed and it was no surprise to see him make the move across the Pennines following an outstanding season in the middle of the park for the Shrimps. Midfielder Alex Gilliead and winger Abo Eisa have both joined from Scunthorpe United whilst the versatile Oscar Threlkeld is another player Adams knows well from his time at Home Park. Striker Lee Angol has something to prove having disappointed in recent years. Covid-19 restrictions notwithstanding, average attendances at Valley Parade could top 15,000 this season and, if Adams can transfer his philosophy and build some momentum, another promotion could be on the cards.