JOHN Kear is ready to dig for more “hidden gems” after Brad England signed a new contract with the Bulls.

The second row has been a revelation since arriving from Doncaster last year and has penned another deal for the 2022 campaign.

Kear has been impressed with how England has taken the step-up from League One in his stride after previously being released from Castleford’s academy.

Having seen the club’s scouting work justified by England’s performances, Kear believes there is more untapped talent to discover lower down.

He said: “Brad’s been a signing that really has paid off and it’s come as a result of us trawling through our competitors in the lower leagues.

“That’s what will happen this year with our recruitment.

“The players may not be the biggest names but they are ones we have researched greatly and we feel can make an impression.

“It’s the same in any sport, you’ve got to trawl through and put in the time but you will find some hidden gems. That’s what we feel we’ve done with Brad.

“When we were in League One, we felt he was Doncaster’s best forward by some distance and we kept tabs on him ever since then.

“We contacted his agent when he was out of contract and sold the club to him.

“He bought into the club’s ethos and felt he was ready to prove himself at a higher level.

“We provided him with that opportunity and it’s there for all to see that he has done.”

England has made 14 appearances so far and scored four tries. He confirmed it was an easy decision to remain at Odsal.

“I didn’t want to speak to anyone else,” said the 26-year-old. “I get on so well with the boys and I really like playing in front of our supporters.

“It has been a lot more physical in the Championship but I like that side of the game. I have enjoyed every minute and hopefully we can keep on improving.

“When I came, I didn’t want to make up the numbers. I wanted to be a real part of the team and help the boy,s so now I just want to keep on improving and playing as much as I can.

“I love the Bradford fans, they are one of the main reasons I came in the first place.

“They are absolutely class. When we go away they are always louder than the home supporters and I feel lucky to play in front of them.”

Kear admires England’s aggression – and feels there is still “loads of improvement” in him.

“Brad’s not a youngster coming through, he’s an established player so he fits the profile really well.

“He feels he is very much on the way back up and I agree with him.

“He’s shown this year that he can more than cope with being a top-level Championship player and he’ll only get better.”