McLaren's Bradford deal is ended

McLaren played 35 times for City, scoring three goals

Bradford City midfielder Paul McLaren has left Valley Parade after having his contract cancelled by mutual consent, and is expected to return to Tranmere.

The 32-year-old joined City on a free transfer from Rovers last summer and scored three goals in 37 appearances.

He was one of the club's highest earners but his future was thrown into doubt with City forced to slash their wage bill for this season.

Fellow high-earner Graeme Lee signed Notts County last week.

"Macca is a very, very talented footballer, no doubt about it," City manager Stuart McCall told the Telegraph and Argus.

Macca had some excellent games for us but then again some very quiet ones as well Bradford boss Stuart McCall

"He will be the first to admit he didn't reach the heights he hoped for, especially at home, where teams came and clamped down on him with three in the middle.

"Macca had some excellent games for us but then again some very quiet ones as well. But I'm not surprised that two or three clubs from League One had been on to us about him.

"I'm disappointed to lose him, as I was about Graeme Lee. I know it had to be done from the budget point of view but both lads will be missed in the dressing room and on the park."