IN-FORM Adam Sidlow believes competition for places is about to hot up – but the Bulls prop wants to continue playing big minutes.

Sidlow has made an outstanding start to the season for Jimmy Lowes' men and cemented his place as a first-choice front-rower alongside Paul Clough.

But with Dan Fleming and Epalahame Lauaki possibly in contention to face Featherstone this weekend, Sidlow knows he cannot afford to let his standards slip.

Samir Tahraoui has played in the opening two matches and Karl Davies is also waiting in the wings as he recovers from ligament damage.

Former Salford man Sidlow said: "I've spoken to Jimmy and he wants me to do big minutes because we've not had many fit props available.

"I'm happy to do that for the team but Dan and Hame are nearly ready, so we may go to Featherstone with a big pack on Sunday.

"The more competition the better because last year we only had me and Nas (Manase Manuokafoa) and then Chev (Walker) as a makeshift prop, so we really struggled.

"Jimmy has picked Cloughie and me to start in the first two games – but nobody is safe and you're only one bad game away from being dropped.

"That competition keeps you on your toes and we will need it throughout the year."

Sidlow, who crashed over the line for the final try in Sunday's 34-4 win over Whitehaven, is relishing the prospect of facing former Warrington duo Garreth Carvell and Paul Wood.

"I've got full respect for Gaz and Paul Wood but we're going to go there (Featherstone) and give it to them, just like they will do with us," he said.

"They're big, strong lads who like to offload the ball and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"They've got youth in the likes of Jordan Baldwinson and experienced players too, with Paul Sykes guiding them around the park."

Meanwhile, managing director Steve Ferres admits the Bulls are unlikely to make a move for Gareth Hock, who is a free agent after leaving Salford.

Leigh head coach Paul Rowley has said he "would love to have Gareth Hock at the club", while Wakefield, Widnes and Hull KR could also look to sign the controversial forward.

Ferres said: "As a club we are always interested in any quality player who becomes available, particularly of this player's calibre. However, in this instance it could prove too prohibitive."