Signing no.5 : Zak Bradshaw

One day into pre season and the U's have already announced their 5th signing. Just over 5 hours after the announcement, we dissect this transfer and what it means for the rest of the window for the U's. Another free transfer and a 2 year contract has been handed out to former Lincoln and Tranmere centre back/left back Zak Bradshaw. Bradshaw is a left footed versatile defender who can play as high as left wing back but as defensive as a centre back. The versatility will be extremely important with the U's recent injury issues. Bradshaw is clearly aligned with Harris, with both mentioning the stability they want at the Abbey. Harris added that Bradshaw has "lots of potential" and "adds real competition .... across the defensive unit". Bradshaw is determined that a move closer to home will help add to his 2,800 minutes of football in the last 3 seasons.

What to expect?

A raw yet highly rated youngster who is yet to make a name for himself is to be expected from the 21 year old. With him under contract for another 2 years it will be a good time frame for him to prove that the hype is real. A talented defender who isn't shy of bombing forward, he can be likened to Liam Bennet who will be playing on the right hand side. Despite having a similar haircut to Rossi, he is much more disciplined and calm under pressure which for a team aiming for promotion is a huge benefit. As to be expected in a youngster, a mistake is bound to happen but with experience and the coaching of Neil Harris that part of his game is sure to be weeded out fairly soon.

What do other fans think?

Tranmere fans are keen on the 21 year old, saying he should have played more by Atkins left him out the squad far too much. This is a sign that all Cambridge United fans will be loving. However, other Tranmere fans are worried that their former wing back's form will drop towards the end of the season for the U's as was the case last season. Lincoln fans don't seem fussed by this transfer as they haven't seem him play so can't judge him fairly. The majority of U's fans seem confused as the 21 year old is still yet to announce himself to League 2, however are hopeful that this transfer works out for all parties.

What's next?

The defence is surely now sorted. Plenty of depth and quality along the back line in either a 4 or 5 at the back. Following the signing of Ball, the U's only need 1 or 2 midfielders with one of those being a creator following the loss of fan favourite Josh Stokes. The U's must sign at least 1 striker and bring in a creative, direct winger to partner Kaikai and Knight. U's fans have to remain patient and focus on the Abbey and not what's going on elsewhere in League 2.

Credit: Cambridge United website