JOHN Kear believes new recruit Connor Farrell is the mirror image of the unlucky James Laithwaite.

The Bulls coach moved swiftly to snap up the second rower from Featherstone after Laithwaite announced he would be quitting the game.

Laithwaite had been pencilled into the club’s plans for 2019 if he was able to make a full recovery from the serious injury he suffered at Hunslet in mid-July.

The 27-year-old broke his leg for the second time in his career and underwent delicate surgery to repair the damage.

But Laithwaite decided instead to call time on rugby and focus on his business career.

So Kear instead switched his attentions to Farrell – and believes the Bulls have got an identikit player.

He said: “We looked at the people who were coming out of contract and who were similar players to James.

“We felt James had a great work ethic. He was very tough in defence and carried the ball well.

“We wanted someone of similar ilk and Connor really does suit that to me.

“The fans will see that and he’s only 24 years of age. He’s got plenty of experience but he’s also physically got his best years in front of him.”

Laithwaite arrived at Odsal on loan from dual-registration partner Toronto in April.

He played 12 games for the Bulls, scoring four tries, and never appeared on the losing side.

Kear added: “It’s difficult. You don’t want to see anyone retire as early as 27.

“But as James rightly says, he’s got a business opportunity and then he’s got the rest of his life to live.

“I fully understand. He was very mature and level-headed how he explained things to everybody at the club.

“There’s no acrimony whatsoever. He very much played his part in the promotion.

“We just wish him really well and thank him for his efforts.”