JOE Lumb is flattered that Adam O'Brien sees him as a genuine threat to his hooker's jersey at Odsal.

He has been encouraged by O'Brien's recent admission that he is looking over his shoulder at the upcoming Bulls youngster, with Vila Halifihi on loan at Swinton Lions.

"I take it as a compliment that Adam O'Brien said he sees me as a threat to his place in the team, especially as Adam is someone I have a lot of respect for," said Lumb.

"Everything I do in training and in games going forward, I've learnt from Adam as I have learnt a lot from him. But personally, he's the number one hooker here and I don't see myself as a threat to him."

Lumb is relishing life around the first-team squad and hopes to avoid going out on loan in order to fight for his place in Rohan Smith's 17.

He feels the environment has changed since the Australian replaced Jimmy Lowes as coach and said: "It's been really good since Rohan Smith arrived. It's a lot different to when Jimmy was in charge – but from me, it's all positive so far.

"He's got a different approach than Jimmy had but it's something that not just me, but all the lads have taken to so far and it has been a smooth transition.

"This season is my first in the first team after coming up from academy level and it's gone all right so far. I've played a few games and managed to earn myself a new contract.

"If the opportunity to go out on loan like Vila came up, then it's something I'd have to think about when it did arise.

"But for the minute, I'm happy here at Bradford. I'm not playing regularly but I'm getting my appearances in and, to be honest, I don't really want to go anywhere else.

"I just want to keep progressing and earn myself a spot in the team so I can play some more games."