Bradford Bulls are hoping for a crowd of up to 8,000 on Saturday when their fans get the first chance to take a look at their revamped side.

The squad were arriving back from a week long training camp in Lanzarote today and the six major close season signings are all expected to make their debuts against Malcolm Reilly's Huddersfield Giants (2.30pm).

And with hopes high at the McAlpine following the arrival of former Great Britain supremo Reilly, Odsal officials believe the stage is set for an impressive turnout.

"We are pretty optimistic," said chairman Chris Caisley. "We have made some exciting signings, the only doubt is that our fans are not used to Saturday kick-offs but we had no choice because the RFL will not allow friendlies to clash with the Challenge Cup ties on Sunday."

But media manager Stuart Duffy says the signs are good. "There is genuine excitement around the city and fans have told me they can't wait to get underway.

"We will have to see what Matthew (Elliott) has planned when he gets back but I would expect all the newcomers will get a run."

That will give fans a first glimpse of the mouth-watering half-back partnership between skipper Robbie Paul and major close-season recruit, brother Henry.

Aussie trio Michael Withers, Nick Zisti and David Boyle will also be keen to make a quick impression as the race for Challenge Cup places hots-up as will former Salford centre Scott Naylor and Great Britain Academy forward Lee Radford, who was lured away from Hull.

The Bulls have one more warm-up game against Wakefield Trinity on Sunday week (2.30pm) before the season proper begins with a fourth round Challenge Cup tie which will be drawn on Monday night.

Tomorrow night's squad number presentation at St George's Hall, Bradford, is expected to be a sell-out with around 2,000 tickets sold. Bars open at 6.45pm with entertainment starting at 7.30pm.

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