Bulls chairman Peter Hood has predicted a fierce battle for places at Odsal this season and reckons it will bring out the best in Mick Potter’s men.

The Bulls are gearing up for a pivotal campaign as they bid to end three years of failure and re-establish themselves in the Super League play-offs.

The arrival of six new players, which could become seven should trialist Phil Joseph be awarded a contract, has done much to lift the gloom which engulfed the club last term.

And Hood reckons that Potter could be spoilt for choice in the coming weeks as players jostle for positions.

“As a Bradford fan, you pick your own top 17 and, whatever way you do it, you’re going to disappoint a number of names,” said Hood.

“Once a player has forced his way into the side, the onus is then on him to keep that spot.

“Competition for places – the centres, on the wing and in the back row – will be intense and that, in turn, will bring out the best in players on the field.”

* Read full story in today’s Telegraph & Argus