Stuart McCall has vehemently defended the need for secrecy when it comes to team strengthening.

Critics have claimed the Bantams' hush-hush policy on signings has been behind the decision of some fans not to take up the special season-ticket offer, which ended last week.

McCall told the club's official website: "It's not me deliberately wanting to keep supporters in the dark, but I want to do what I believe is best for the football club.

"When you go public it opens up everybody else's eyes and ears. I've done it myself, seeing a club linked with a player on Teletext and thinking `I didn't know he was available'.

McCall added: "Yes, we had the season-ticket deadline last week and full credit to the supporters who have taken up the offer. It's good value for money and I'm delighted with them and grateful for the tremendous backing.

"But for those who were waiting on whether we made a big signing before they bought, that's the gamble they took. If you haven't taken up the offer by now and we bring those players in, then you will have to pay more."