Matt Orford is confident he can become a Super League thoroughbred at Bradford.

The Bulls’ star off-season signing revealed lofty goals for the new campaign as he met his new team-mates and the media yesterday.

One of three Manly players to join the club this winter, alongside Heath L’Estrange and Glenn Hall, Orford has long harboured ambitions to play in England.

And the tough 31-year-old scrum half, labelled ‘Shetland’ by L’Estrange for his supposed resemblance to the breed of pony, hopes to have an impact far greater than his diminutive stature.

Orford said: “It was always a goal to come over and play and just to finally meet all the guys was really good.

“I’m probably a bit jet-lagged at the moment but it’s just good to get out there and get amongst it.

“I’ve always wanted to play over here. I’m glad I’m here now, I’m here for three years and I want to do something special with this group.

“It seems to be a very fast game over here so hopefully it will suit my game and the big boys up front can create some space and quick play-the-balls so I can play some attacking football.

“I’ve always wanted to play here because of the style of football compared to the NRL, they are two different games.

“It seems to be a more free-flowing game over here, a lot quicker and a lot more expansive at times.

“All that appeals to me and every time you get a new challenge, it’s always exciting. It’s a new lease of life.”

Orford had plenty of opportunities to fulfil his Super League dream before Bulls came calling.

Warrington Wolves were known to be long-term admirers of the 31-year-old former Dally M medal winner but the timing was never right - until now.

“I have had opportunities in the past but I’ve always been contracted when I’ve had offers so I didn’t really consider them that much,” said Orford.

“The timing was right and the opportunity came. It’s all happened so quick but I’m glad it did because it’s given me the opportunity to fulfil one of my goals.

“I’ve come to a good club and I think we can do some special things here.

“I looked at the roster and the coaching staff and I think they underachieved last year, they just got off to a slow start.

“I see plenty of potential in this squad and I think they can do big things, especially with the new signings.”

* The Bulls will make an announcement this week about the make-up of their backroom staff for the new season.

It is believed the departures of assistant coach Basil Richards and strength and conditioning coach Martin Clawson will both be confirmed.