Bradford boss Phil Parkinson was surprised he did not have to fend off any offers for skipper James Hanson during the summer.

Big striker Hanson struggled with a back problem at the end of the last campaign but has hit the ground running this season with five goals in eight appearances, plus two assists.

The 26-year-old was also nominated for the League One Player of the Month award for August, won by Barnsley midfielder Conor Hourihane.

"We didn't have any offers for Hans and I am surprised at that," Parkinson told Press Association Sport.

"I'm obviously pleasantly surprised. He's a terrific player and integral to Bradford City.

"He's had a good start James. He had a problem with injuries last year and our physio has done a great job to resolve that and we're reaping the benfits of that now.

"We know it's only a start, but he's a player who continues to improve and that's the most pleasing aspect about James.

"He's better in himself because he appears to be over his back problem.

"His biggest attribute is his unselfishness on the pitch.

"He's scored his goals but he's a real team player and sometimes to the untrained eye that goes unnoticed, the work he does, his tactical awareness and the work he does for the rest of the team.

"That's why he's been a pivotal part to Bradford City over the last few years."