Bradford Bulls have extended the contract of their giant prop Paul Anderson.

The new deal means that the Great Britain international will remain at Odsal until the end of the 2002 season.

The extra 12 months were agreed after talks between the player, coach Matthew Elliott and chief executive Abi Ekoku.

Elliott is delighted to have clinched the deal with a player who has become a key member of the Bulls side since joining them from Halifax in 1997.

"Good props aren't easy to come by," said Elli-ott. "We are fortunate to have three at this club in Paul, Stuart Fielden and Brian McDer-mott.

"It is always good when you can secure them on longer deals and it is pleasing for me as coach to have the services of a player of Paul's class.

"He is a very influential player for us and has performed very well this season."

Elliott also reports that the chances of skipper Robbie Paul making his return against Leeds Rhinos on Friday are diminishing.

The Kiwi is back in training after puncturing a lung and breaking two ribs in last month's ill-tempered draw at Halifax.

Elliott said: "At this moment I would say it was a case of 60-40 against.

"We haven't given up hope, but neither will we take an unnecessary risk with the play-offs so close."