MARK Dunning is plotting a much-needed shake-up for the Bulls for 2023.

With a month to go of the Championship campaign, the Odsal coach is predicting plenty of changes for next season.

The squad is facing major surgery over the winter after their failure to reach the play-offs.

“I’m not going to put any numbers on things but the season itself determines that change is needed,” said Dunning.

“There will be a bit of change within the group and it’s justified and needed.

“I’m hoping it will bring its own enthusiasm and influx of energy and obviously better output on the field as well.”

The Bulls go to York for a televised clash on Monday – the first of three on the road in their final five games all against play-off opposition.

But the Bulls have come up well short of last year’s fifth-placed finish and the fanbase will be expecting a very different line-up for next season.

Reports this week have linked AJ Wallace and Matty Dawson-Jones with possible moves away from Odsal and a number of exits are anticipated.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: AJ Wallace, pictured scoring against Workington, has been linked with CastlefordAJ Wallace, pictured scoring against Workington, has been linked with Castleford

Dunning added: “I just think it’s common sense. Things haven’t been good enough.

“There are some people coming to the end of their contracts, others who have chosen to leave and some who might want to stay but will end up leaving.

“There will be some that stay as well. We’re down the road on a couple of retentions.

“There are a million and one conversations going on at the moment and about 3,000 plates spinning.

“It’s busy in the background and we’re working hard to change the fortunes of the team.”

Dunning insists the Bulls remain an attractive destination for players despite their current struggles. But he is keen not to hurry into making decisions.

“For me, the key to recruitment is that it’s done in a way that is methodical and there is plenty of due diligence.

“Some people like to rush and get it done early. I’d much rather know that we’re getting the right person first and foremost who have got the right attitude and right reasons to come to this club.

“There are key indicators we are looking at. What are the reasons for these guys to want to join the Bradford Bulls?

“There are things that will make us prick our ears up and others that will make us wonder if they are the right person to join our group.

“There’s plenty of due diligence to go through but the process is the right one.

“If it takes an extra little bit of time, I think that’s the right way to go about things.

“It’s not been the best of seasons by any stretch of the imagination but players are still aware of the potential and size of our club.”