Saturday 26 April 2008
Coca-Cola Football League 2
Bradford City vs Milton Keynes Dons

I would like to say many congratulations to Paul Ince, Ray Mathias and everyone connected with MK Dons for their terrific season.

They've come a long way from where they were and are a real club on the up. I'm pleased for Paul who has done incredibly well in his first full season as a manager to win the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and promotion, most likely as champions.

I got to know him when we were on the same management course and obviously I played against Paul many times and knows what a tough competitor he is.

He's got some good professionals in his team and the right mix of youth and experience. Hats off to them they've been entertaining, scored lots of goals and have proved to be the best team in the league.

To win 17 away games out of 22 is an incredible record so we know what we'll be up against this afternoon.

As this is the last home game, I would like to thank the fantastic support that the team and myself have received. From a personal point of view, it's been humbling to see such big crowds week in, week out.

To take 1,400 fans to Rochdale the other week, you would think we were the team top of the table.

I've also had lots of support through letters and all that which has been a great lift during the times when we have been struggling. It's great to hear from supporters, some of whom have been watching for many years, telling me to stick in there.

It just makes everyone around the club more determined than ever to bring the fans the success they deserve and really give them something to be excited about.

As you all know, today marks David Wetherall's final home game as a player before he takes up the job as first-team coach.

Coming back from Brentford, I was trying to persuade him to stay on for next season but there was no changing his mind!

He's been a great servant to this club and even this season, although it has not finished on a high in terms of league position, from his own view he will go out by playing every game. That is a testament to his dedication and professionalism.

But what we are losing as a player we will gain as a coach. We've been a body short on that side and it will be a lot better for Wayne and myself to have Skip on board.

He is intellectual about the game and will be good to bounce ideas off.

I'm sure there are times when he could have left the club, especially in administration, but he stuck by Bradford City and the supporters have shown their appreciation for his loyalty. The Wetherall day at Rotherham was brilliant and I'm sure he will be given a great send-off today. He fully deserves it.

I would like to thank Julian and Mark for their continued backing and all the staff, especially Jakes who can't do enough as my assistant be it at games or at training. I'm grateful for all the help and encouragement in my first season as manager and hopefully we can all build on this and next year be in a position where MK Dons are now.

Enjoy the game