BULLS have boosted their fight for Championship survival with the capture of Wakefield centre Ashley Gibson.

The 30-year-old, who has signed a permanent deal until the end of next season, will go straight into contention for Sunday’s West Yorkshire derby at Halifax.

Gibson trained with the Bulls this morning and coach Geoff Toovey is delighted to have recruited a player fresh from Super League action.

Toovey said: “We don’t need to have train him up. He can step straight in and carry on from where he left off.

“It’s very hard to get someone who’s not experienced, throw him into a new team and expect miracles to happen. But a person of his quality and experience can step right in.

“He trained with us today, felt right at home and didn’t miss a beat. I’m sure he’ll be very well regarded by the fans and the other players.

“We need that bit of steadiness, experience and tenacity when things get tough.

“That’s very hard to come by and I’m sure he will enhance those factors for us.

“It has been a difficult period and it remains the case but we’re striving to get there as quickly as we can.

“We’ll just keep putting one foot in front of the other and notch up a few more wins before the season is out.”

Leeds-born Gibson, who has previously played for the Rhinos, Castleford and Salford, recently spent a dual-registration spell in the Championship with Dewsbury.

He said: “I enjoyed my time at Wakey and they are a good club. But this is something I’m really looking forward to.

“There had been talk about it for a few days but last night it came to life. The contract got emailed through this morning and I came here and got my boots on straight away.”