Bradford Bulls could face a tug-of-war for Australian-based former Leeds prop Harvey Howard.

The uncompromising forward is initially on the look-out for a short term contract to put himself back in Great Britain contention in time to face the Kiwis in a three match series in November.

That could alert several clubs seeking to boost their play-off hopes including former club Leeds.

Bulls coach Matthew Elliott admitted: "He made the first approach and we have spoken to him but any deal is still some way off.

"We are still a little light up front and he could be a useful signing but it would have to be a short-term move at this stage as he is still under contract to Wests in Australia."

In the meantime Howard is seeking clarification over his future and a possible merger between Wests and Canterbury would allow him to opt out of his current deal.

Howard, who will be 30 at the weekend, left Leeds at the end of the first Super League season in 1996.

Meanwhile Elliott is hopeful of having both Bernard Dwyer (knee) and Nathan McAvoy (ankle) fit again for the Bank Holiday visit of Castleford.

Both were close to selection for the defeat at Halifax on Sunday but failed late fitness checks.

Elliott also reported progress for whiplash injury victim Sonny Nickle and he could also come into contention.

The only new concern is a rib injury to winger Jon Scales but Elliott expects him to be available.

Keighley Cougars centre Brock McDonald has been named in the FASDA team of the week following his try-scoring performance against Featherstone Rovers on Friday.

Australian Test prop forward Mark Carroll, granted a release from the remainder of his London Broncos contract, will rejoin South Sydney next year after accepting a massive pay cut.

Souths also have an option to sign him for a further year if they can survive the National Rugby League's planned reduction of clubs to 14.

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