The Bantams schemer who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Throstle Nest last term, has agreed a one-year-deal with an option to extend his stay – if the move goes well.

Bentham, 23, joins up with ex-City team-mate and fellow midfielder Tom Penford, also released by Stuart McCall at the end of last season.

Celts have also re-signed 30-year-old defender Mark Jackson for the 2008/09 season and are speaking to two perspective new signings along with a player who appeared for the club last season.

Assistant-boss Neil Parsley said: "There was lots of competition form Conference clubs to sign Craig and if I'm being honest, I'm quite surprised he didn't get another league club. We pushed the boat out to sign him and are really pleased to have acquired his services."

And on Jackson, he said: "Mark's experience and leadership qualities and coaching abilities with the young lads here goes unquestioned and we're pleased to keep someone of his experience."

Parsley added: "Things are going according to plan.

"We start back in pre-season training on June 28 and there might be a striker issue and we're hoping to secure a striker or two."