Bradford Bulls prop Joe Vagana seems to be feeling sorry for the club's opponents even before the competitive action gets under way.

The Samoan and New Zealand international, who is 26 later this month, said: "I don't know who they will kick to on the fifth tackle this season."

Added the 18st 10lb genial giant: "I wouldn't fancy kicking to any of our wingers, and full back Mick Withers is pretty tasty too.

"I am just glad they are on my side and that I am not playing against them!"

He came back to England on December 30 after a break in New Zealand and started training on January 3.

Vagana, who had an immense game in helping the Bulls defeat Wigan in the play-off semi-final at Valley Parade last October, hasn't noticed any change in the euphoric mood among the first-team squad since the end of last season.

'Big Joe' said: "We have just picked up from where we left off last year, and all the lads are getting on great with the new guys Lesley Vainikolo and Brandon Costin.

"I am showing Lesley where to go to in Bradford and where not to go to, and I am trying to keep him out of trouble - he is loving it living in England for the first time.

"He cannot wait to put his boots on and run on the paddock, and he really enjoyed the atmosphere in last season's play-off semi-final against Wigan.

"We are looking forward to defending our title."

Added Vagana, who has the early stages of a beard: "I celebrated for two weeks in England after we won the Grand Final before flying home to Auckland.

"I showed off my winners' ring and enjoyed seeing my family and a bit of the sun.

"My brothers, sisters and cousins and myself all got away for Christmas for a couple of weeks to beaches and campsites that we always visit - get away from city life.

"I did some training while I was back home with a couple of my old Auckland Warriors team-mates."

Tickets go on sale on Monday for the Bulls' squad presentation evening on Monday, January 28 at Pennington's Live (8pm). They are £4 for adults and £3.50 for fan club members. All are welcome, but the evening is all ticket.