BULLS have announced that George Flanagan has penned a new one-year deal

The boyhood Bradford fan, who was in their academy, rejoined the club in 2018 and has made 50 appearances, scoring 26 tries.

The 35-year-old had a disastrous start to the 2021 season, as he was handed a 10-game ban after being found guilty of “attacking an opponent’s testicles” in Bulls’ Challenge Cup defeat to Featherstone in March.

That meant Flanagan was suspended until early July, and ahead of his return against Batley, he told the T&A that there was a period during his enforced absence when he considered not playing rugby any more.

But the hooker bounced back, and he was in impressive form towards the back end of the 2021 season, scoring braces against Newcastle and Swinton to help John Kear’s side book a play-off berth.

On his new deal, Flanagan said: “I am buzzing, it has come at a good time for me.

“From speaking to John and Mark (Dunning), it hasn’t been the best year personally, but I am delighted they have shown faith in me to go round again and I can’t wait to have a good crack at it.

“I want to do my best for this team at every opportunity. I came back and scored tries but I want to push on and repay the faith they had in me during a tough period.

“Coming back into pre-season last year there were a lot of protocols in place, so this year hopefully we can have a good full pre-season, a bit of old school bashing with John and Mark, and go one step further next year.

“I have made no secret of the fact I want to finish my career here and the club have always stood by me.

“I love being at this club and I like John’s coaching style, I am buzzing and want to finish my career here.

“One bonus of being at a club like Bradford is you sign the likes of Dec Patton.

“He will bring his experience and calibre down here and I look forward to lining up with all the new lads.

“I just want to thank the Bradford fans for their support when I was going through a tough time.

“My message to the fans is stick by us and we will give it a good shot for you next year.”

Bradford boss Kear believes Flanagan can play a key role in Bulls’ promotion bid in 2022 – praising his passion and dedication.

The head coach said: “George is someone who embodies just what it means to play for this club.

“He is passionate about the club and works hard away from here to ensure he puts his best foot forward.

“I am certain he has another very productive year in front of him, he is very important to us as a coaching and playing group.

“He sets examples off the field and I felt he was harshly treated earlier on this year.

“We stood by him and he repaid us and that is why he has signed for another year.”