JOHN Kear reckons the Bulls have cashed in on the "weaknesses in the system" to snare Jordan Lilley.

The Leeds half-back has returned to Odsal on loan until the end of next season after 12 appearances for the club last year.

Lilley jumped at the chance of putting down some roots after a nomadic campaign that has seen him play seven games for three different clubs.

Kear said: “I think Jordan’s situation shows the weakness of the structure within the RFL at the minute.

“If Leeds would have had a reserve team, I’m certain it would have been more beneficial for Jordan to remain there, train with them, play in their reserves and get a first-team opportunity.

“But instead he’s been pushed from pillar to post.

“We’ve benefited from the frailties of the system because we’ve been able to secure him with an offer of a good club with some stability.

“Obviously he realised he enjoyed his rugby at Bradford last year. The fact we were prepared to offer him some stability for the next 18 months was one of the appealing things.

“He’s not going out to Featherstone one week, then Leigh another month, then back to Leeds. He’s at Bradford for 18 months and I think that will allow him to grow as a person and as a player.”

Kear will name his 19-man squad today for Sunday’s Odsal showdown with title rivals York and Lilley’s arrival has given the selection committee food for thought.

“Let’s say the jury is out,” said the Bulls coach after the 21-year-old really caught the eye in his first training session back with the squad.

Kear added: “I was mightily impressed with what he showed, including his understanding of what we’re trying to do.

“He’ll be very good for us as a team when he learns our core structures and systems.

“It’s not like putting in a prop forward or a winger, it’s much more complicated than that. But he’s a quick learner and he certainly made us sit up.

“Jordan is a very talented half back or hooker and can add a great deal to our squad. The first thing he adds is competition and will keep everyone on their toes.

“He’s a bubbly, enthusiastic character who loves rugby league. I think he will be great for the group.”