Richard Eckersley completes loan move to Bradford City

Eckersley has joined the in-form League Two side in a deal that could run until the start of January.

The former Manchester United full-back moves to Valley Parade for the chance of regular first-team football.

“It has been difficult to get Richard games so this is a good opportunity for him,” said Burnley boss Brian Laws, who will have an option of re-calling the player after the first 28 days.

“He’s going to a club that gets crowds of 10,000 so he will be playing in a fantastic atmosphere at a good stadium.

“He’s also going to play under an excellent manager in Peter Taylor so it’s a good move all round.”

Eckersley has had limited exposure at Turf Moor since signing from United in July, 2009.

The 21-year-old made three cup appearances last season and also figured in a Carling Cup tie at Morecambe in August.

But Eckersley has been unable to break into the Clarets’ side for league duty and following a loan spell at Plymouth Argyle at the end of last season now gets the chance to further his experience under ex-England under-21 boss Taylor at Bradford.

Eckersley is expected to be in the Bantams’ squad for their trip to Wycombe tomorrow as they look for a fifth win in six league games.

Meanwhile, the Clarets’ trio of Kevin McDonald, Wes Fletcher and Kevin Long complete their respective initial one-month loan deals at Scunthorpe, Stockport and Accrington Stanley after tomorrow’s fixtures.

Laws will hold talks next week regarding any potential extensions with at least one deal set to be renewed.