MATTY Blythe has given the Bulls a major boost after being told he does not require surgery after all and is free to play again.

But the all-action centre’s imminent return has been tempered by the news that Chris Ulugia has been ruled out for eight weeks after fracturing his metacarpal during Sunday’s defeat to Hull KR.

Blythe was struck down by an infection which left him hospitalised following a procedure he hoped would solve a back problem.

He was set for an operation which would have sidelined him until July but has now been cleared to play and could initially play for Oxford or Coventry to build up his match fitness.

Head coach Jimmy Lowes said: “It’s a huge boost to have Matty back in contention after it looked like he would miss the vast majority of the season.

“He comes back at a crucial time for us as we move towards the halfway stage in the season.

“We are looking to kick on now towards the business end of the year.

“Matty is obviously hugely experienced and offers us major versatility which is going to be important.

“He runs hard and has proved his worth over the years in Bulls colours. We look forward to seeing him back in action.”