Jack Diamond and Alex Bradley return to Harrogate Town for National League play-offs

The loan duo returned to Wetherby Road on Tuesday after the National League confirmed that they would eligible to play for Simon Weaver's team in this month's promotion play-offs.

Sunderland winger Diamond, 20, and versatile Lincoln City man Bradley, 21, both featured prominently to help Town to second place in the fifth tier before 2019/20 was suspended, then abandoned due to the coronavirus crisis.

Both players rejoined their parent clubs when their temporary deals at the CNG Stadium expired at the end of April, though Weaver has been keen to bring the pair back as he bids to mastermind a route into League Two.

"I'm very pleased, they've both performed ever so well for us," the Town boss said.

"They became a big part of the group and were pretty integral really.

"Jack Diamond just got better and better as the season went on. He became a really good outlet for us. He scared teams and it's good to have that scare-factor in your side.

"Alex filled in at right-back as well as playing in the centre of midfield and performed very well in both positions.

"It's good to have them back. They haven't been in with their parent clubs, but they've obviously kept themselves ticking over this summer because they have both looked strong in training."

Diamond made 30 appearances in all competitions for Town during the regular season, bagging four goals. Bradley played 24 times and also found the back of the net on four occasions.

Huddersfield Town striker Kian Harratt, 18, is also expected to join back up with Harrogate later this week.

"Huddersfield are happy for him to come back, we're just waiting on the paperwork going through," Weaver added.

Harrogate's National League play-off semi-final will take place behind closed doors at Wetherby Road on either July 25 or 26.

Weaver's men will host the winner of the eliminator tie between Boreham Wood and FC Halifax Town.