LEE Gaskell will miss the Summer Bash showdown with Leigh on Saturday – but Rohan Smith is optimistic about keeping him at the Bulls beyond this season.

Gaskell sustained a hamstring injury which forced him off during the first half of last week's win at Sheffield.

Bradford coach Smith said: "Gaskell won't play this weekend and we're not too sure how long he will be out for.

"We'll take it day by day and see how he progresses but we won't rush him back and haven't set a timeframe for his return."

Danny Addy and Mitch Clark are believed to have offers on the table from Hull KR and Dale Ferguson has been heavily linked with a move to Huddersfield, while Leigh are long-time admirers of Gaskell.

Yet Smith said: "As far as I know, they haven't signed anywhere. They are well aware of where they stand with me because they are excellent players and I feel like I can contribute to their careers.

"There is a lot of stuff bubbling behind the surface on those guys and others, so we're looking forward to making some re-signings in the next little while.

"I think players generally get what they deserve, whether that be at this club or elsewhere, if they play well.

"It's about working out the balance of the squad and who else is available but also working with the management here, getting an opinion from people I know in Super League and making the best decision for the club on each individual."

Australian scrum half Josh Drinkwater opted to join Leigh ahead of Bradford and will face the Bulls on Saturday but Smith revealed work was going on behind the scenes to strengthen his squad.

Rhys Lovegrove and Adrian Purtell remain sidelined but Kris Welham is available despite taking a head knock against Sheffield.