Bradford City could be ready to make a move for Liverpool's Steve Staunton to relieve their defensive pressures. Bradford are without Irishman Andy O'Brien, who is out with a long-term injury and Staunton is seen as perfect cover.

Staunton was told by Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier that he could leave the club on a free transfer if he could find some team interested in him.

Since then three teams have made their interest known. His old team Aston Villa would like to bring him back to Birmingham.

Manchester City are also known to be in the market for a defender and Staunton's name has been linked along with Sunderland's Irish international Paul Butler.

If any of the clubs make a concrete offer, Staunton he will have to sit down and think hard and long about his decision. He does not want another nightmare scenario like he suffered at Liverpool as he sat in the stands week in, week out watching the team play.

His best bet could be Manchester City as he would be more likely to hold down a first-team place. The versatile Staunton can play on the left in midfield or at the back and also is adept in the sweeper role. Any club that can promise him one of these positions is sure to win the race to sign him.

Stan knows Valley Parade very well after spending a time on loan there during the 1987-88 season. He played ten games and scored one goal in his time there.