Bradford City

Image source, EFL

A new initiative highlighting the work of football club charities has been launched by the English Football League (EFL).

'Scan to Smile' will be rolled out in stadiums across the EFL from Friday until the end of January, with supporters invited to scan QR codes on posters displayed around grounds.

Each scan will unlock a short, uplifting story from a person whose life has been positively impacted by the support of their local club charity.

The subjects tackled include mental health support, combating loneliness, improving physical wellbeing, employability and confidence.

The EFL said it hoped the initiative would use "the reach and influence of football to offer fans a moment of positivity on matchday".

Trevor Birch, chief executive at the EFL, said: "Behind every club are people whose lives have been positively changed through the work and dedication of their local EFL club charity.

"This initiative gives supporters the chance to see that impact first-hand and reminds us that football truly is a force for good."

Bradford City are close to signing Manchester United striker Ethan Wheatley on loan for the rest of the season after the 20-year-old was recalled from Northampton Town last week. (Sky Sports), external

Want to read more EFL transfer news and rumours? Check out Thursday's gossip column in full here.

Image source, SNS

Brad Halliday has joined Dundee from Bradford City after being sold on the Scottish top flight by "best mate" Joe Wright, the former Kilmarnock defender.

Right-back Halliday, 30, moves to Dens Park on a two-and-a-half year deal to become Dundee's second January arrival after striker Joe Bevan.

Coming through the youth set-up at Middlesbrough, Halliday has gone on to make over 450 senior appearances throughout his career.

He joined Bradford in summer 2022 and was included in the EFL team of the year for League Two last season after helping the club win promotion.

"I'm delighted to finally be up here," Halliday said of his Dundee switch.

"My best mate in football [Joe Wright] was at Kilmarnock last year, he's given me his insight and experience on the Scottish Premiership. I'm really excited and can't wait to get going."

Image source, Rex Features

Portsmouth defender Tom McIntyre has returned from his loan spell at Bradford City after a four-month spell at Valley Parade.

The centre-back moved to Valley Parade in September on a season-long agreement and made 11 appearances across all competitions for the Bantams who lie third in League One.

This was McIntyre's second loan spell during his time at Pompey, also spending time at Charlton last season where he played 10 times.

The 27-year-old joined the Blues in 2024 from Reading where he came through their academy and made over 100 appearances for the first team.