GARETH Evans has joined Wanderers’ League Two rivals Bradford City having been linked with a move to Bolton.

Reports on the South Coast suggested the 32-year-old could be heading to the UniBol from Portsmouth.

But Whites head coach Ian Evatt ruled out the move at his pre-Newport press conference on Friday afternoon, with his return to Valley Parade on a two-year deal confirmed shortly afterwards.

“He’s a player I’m aware of, however in the midfield area we've got Sarce (Antoni Sarcevic) when he gets back fit, we’ve obviously got Ronan Darcy, Tutty (Andrew Tutte), Brandon Comley, Whitey (Tom White) and Ali Crawford at the moment and that’s not an area we need to strengthen,” said the head coach.

“It’s more the top end of the pitch where we’re looking to strengthen.”

He added: “We’re looking to hopefully bring a couple in.

“We’re light at the top half of the pitch so we’re looking to do some business in that area to give us some competition.”

Evans is back with Bantams boss Stuart McCall who signed him for his first Bradford stint from Macclesfield in 2009.

He made 218 appearances in five years with Pompey and helped them win promotion from League Two.

Evans said: “I am delighted to be back. If I am honest, I never thought I would see the day, but I am over the moon to be here and looking forward to getting to know the lads and playing at this club again. 

“My time at Portsmouth was up a little bit and as soon as I knew Bradford City and Stuart McCall were interested, it was something I was excited to be getting finalised. 

“I really enjoyed playing for the club last time and have some very fond memories. I would love nothing more than to achieve success here.”