Elliot Kear has hailed his double hernia operation as a resounding success and is confident of being fit for the start of the season.

The new Bulls winger, 23, underwent surgery in Manchester last month to cure the problem which he carried into the Gillette Four Nations with Wales.

The Cardiff-born wideman spent Christmas and New Year back home in the principality as he recovered from the operation.

He could be back in full training within the next fortnight and is hopeful of playing in the final pre-season friendly against Hull later this month.

“The operation went really well and I should be fit for the start of the season,” declared Kear, who signed a three-year deal with Bradford following the demise of Crusaders.

“I was a bit sore after, and I didn’t get out of bed for a couple of days, but I think it did me good and I enjoyed my Christmas and New Year.

“I’m quite surprised how quickly my recovery is going – that’s how I feel anyway. Although I’m not back in full training yet, I definitely will be in the next two or three weeks.

“Being fit for the start of the season is my main aim at the moment but I’d like to play some part in the final pre-season game as a bit of a warm-up.”

Full story in today's Telegraph & Argus