Town boss Paul Jewell has paid tribute to his former Bradford City team-mate Dean Richards, who died at the age of 36 on Saturday after a long illness. Jewell played alongside Richards for the Bantams between 1992 and 1995, the central defender subsequently going on to play for Wolves, Southampton, Tottenham and the England U21s.

Jewell told the club site: "The news came as a shock and really knocked me back. He was a terrific lad and it's an absolute tragedy.

"He was the best player I played with at Bradford. He used to cruise through games, a real Rolls Royce.

"I can remember his debut against Bournemouth. He scored and we won 3-1. I said to him 'Don't think it will be this easy for you every week', but it was for him, he was that good.

"He played at the top level, where he deserved to play, and I'm sure he would have played for England if it wasn't for the injuries he had at Spurs.

"He's a massive loss to the game, but more importantly to his family and friends. My thoughts are with them."

Story syndicated from TWTD.co.uk

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