The absence of skipper Andy Lynch will not result in a leadership void at the Bulls.

Although the inspirational prop has been ruled out of action for a month following knee surgery, vice-captain Jamie Langley insists there is no shortage of candidates ready to pick up the baton.

Langley himself is on the mend after spending almost two months on the sidelines with a torn quad muscle and stands a chance of making his return in Sunday’s game at Crusaders.

But even if he misses out once more, the all-action back-rower has no doubt the Bulls will be in good hands.

He said: “I’m ready to step in with Lynchy out. Hopefully I can get back as soon as possible because both of us being out is not an ideal situation and if I do return on Sunday it should soften the blow.

“But we have enough blokes in the squad who can step up and lead the team. There is no shortage of strong characters and the likes of Steve Menzies have great experience.”

If needed, Langley is ready to step into his captain’s shoes in more ways than one.

With Lynch sidelined and Danny Sculthorpe out long-term, the Bulls are down to two recognised senior props in Nick Scruton and Craig Kopczak.

Second-rower Glenn Hall has spent much of the season operating as an interchange front-rower and Langley is happy to do the same.

The 26-year-old’s ball-carrying ability and toughness on defence have already been used at prop in the past.

Langley said: “It’s something I’ve done before. Because we’ve got such a small squad, people are going to have to fill in where needed from time to time.

“I’m no stranger to the role and we have other players who are able to move there if needed, so we’re more than capable of coping.

“There are also a few younger front-rowers, the likes of Steve Crossley and the Burgess twins, who may get their chance to step up and if they do, it would be a great opportunity for them.”

Langley faces a fitness test this afternoon to determine if he can play at Wrexham following a frustrating battle against injury.

On the occasions where he has come close to full fitness, setbacks have delayed his return, but recovery from the muscle problem is now progressing well.