JIMMY Lowes fulfilled his media duties on Thursday morning at Tong to give his thoughts on tomorrow's clash with Widnes.

The game, essentially meaningless for the Bulls since their relegation was confirmed seven weeks ago, barely warranted a passing mention as Lowes held court.

The Bulls head coach is already looking ahead to next season – and with good reason.

The re-signing of men such as Lee Gaskell, Dale Ferguson and Matty Blythe has sent out a message about the intentions of a fallen giant.

"I actually can't wait to crack on and get going in pre-season," said Lowes.

"We will have a slightly different off season in that it won't be one big block like a school holiday six-week break.

"We are having a couple of short little breaks and we will work in between, so we will see how that runs.

"It is something I have not done before but I am sick of 12-week pre-seasons myself. I am sure the lads will be too, so we will try and mix it up a little bit and see how it goes.

"If you spend more than two weeks at home, whatever your job, you get bored. I know I get sick of walking the dog and doing the vaccing up!"

Recent wins over Wigan, Leeds and Hull served as a reminder of the quality that still exists within the Odsal ranks.

They also underlined Lowes' motivational skills and ability to get the best out of his players.

Lowes looked into his players' eyes at half-time during the recent win at Headingley and had a simple message for them.

"Stick to what you're doing and you will not lose this game – trust me and believe what I'm saying," he said. The message was heeded.

Lowes' uncompromising approach has breathed life into a group of players who had slowly been drained of confidence due to the mental fatigue of another administration, a points deduction and a desperately small squad.

The good news is that many players who have proven themselves in Super League – Gaskell, Ferguson, Blythe, Tom Olbison and Danny Addy – have stayed loyal for next year.

The squad is approaching something near completion and a raft of announcements on signings will be made on Thursday at 'An Evening with the Bulls'.

"I speak with (managing director) Steve Ferres every day and it's all about the squad and players," said Lowes.

It is understood a deal for Warrington scrum half Gareth O'Brien was in place but will now not be happening, so the search continues for a partner for Gaskell.

Lowes said: "I've got a couple in mind who we are chasing but that's probably the furthest position away from being sorted over the next week or two.

"I am a bit picky. I want a half-back to play in a certain way and if it is not right I can be a bit funny like that.

"I am looking for a specific player in that position. I have had a couple pretty close but things have happened and we have lost them."

There will also be additions to the coaching staff to support Lowes, who has yet to appoint an assistant.

He joked: "It looks like it is going to be me and Bullman! There will be one or two changes as regards staff anyway, as sometimes it's good to freshen the place up.

"Some of the guys have been through quite a lot with administrations and what have you with the club. I just want to bring some fresh people in – but my main focus is the squad more than anything."