The chance to play regular Super League football could be the making of Matt Cook.

That's the view of Steve McNamara after he allowed the Bulls second row to join Castleford Tigers on loan until the end of the season.

The England international, 21, goes straight into their squad for the televised basement battle with Hull FC at The Jungle on Friday night.

Bulls chief McNamara believes yesterday's deal may pay dividends all round.

"As a young player, Matt's development is paramount and he needs more game-time on a more regular basis," he said, with Cook having been restricted to just four appearances off the bench so far this season.

"Although he's making a valuable contribution when he is playing, for his overall development and to get him where we want him to be, he needs more.

"I can't promise him that here but Cas are desperate for players and he'll be able to gain that experience with them.

"Matt's not a senior player who's not playing and knows the game inside out; he's young and finding his way and I think this is the right thing to do at this moment in time.

"We've got a reasonable squad now and, after the initial month, we can call Matt back as well. It's good for everyone."

With fellow back-rowers Glenn Morrison and David Solomona both likely to return against Hull KR on Sunday, Jamie Langley also fit again and Chris Nero and Simon Finnigan on hand, McNamara can afford to let the ex-Saracens RU player go.

Ironically, Cook scored a crucial try against Hull last Friday - his first Super League touchdown - to help Bradford pick up a priceless victory.

However, he has struggled to command a regular place, the former schoolboy dual-international making just two starts in 40 appearances since debuting in 2005.

McNamara has seen prop Craig Kopczak, 21, recently return from a loan spell at Halifax to make his mark.

"We've seen the benefits with Craig already and I'd look to move players out on loan again if it helps," he said.

"It's done him the world of good and Matt will be playing at a higher level still by staying in Super League."

Cook trained with Cas today and said: "I'm excited to be here.

"I have heard some good things about the club from Wayne Godwin and Andy Lynch and I am looking forward to playing at the Jungle.

"I'd also like to thank Steve McNamara for allowing me to leave the Bulls."

Cas boss Terry Matterson - looking for his side to build on their shock win over St Helens - added: "We've been talking about it for a while and it's great to get him on board.

"He's a strong-running back-rower who brings a bit of punch to us.

"He's frustrated that he hasn't been getting game-time at Bradford. There is an opportunity for both of us."