Bulls coach Matthew Elliott has put transfer moves on one side as the champions look to step on the gas in the battle for a top-three Super League spot.

Elliott has been trying for several months to boost his squad but has drawn a blank, despite an extensive search, and he may now have to wait until the close season to do business.

However, Elliott said yesterday: "I believe the time has come to focus on what we have and working hard to develop the players already here. Despite the injuries we have suffered, I still believe we are capable of going all the way.

"Anyway, we have made two signings from our Academy side in Paul Deacon and Stuart Fielden, and that is the best place to recruit from. Both players have shown they have a lot to offer and they will only get better as they settle."

But Elliott has not yet decided whether to start with Deacon for the big derby clash with Leeds at Headingley on Friday night. "It's nothing to do with the pressure of the game, because Paul certainly has the temperament to handle it.

"But I still have to sit down and consider what will be the best side for this particular match, and much will depend on just who is available."

On that front there was better news yesterday with Andy Hodgson (ankle) reporting fit after missing Sunday's win over Huddersfield.

Brian McDermott is also certain to return, but Sonny Nickle is given only an outside chance after suffering a whiplash injury against Wigan.

There is also encouraging news on the long- term injury front, with prop Paul Anderson training on a bike after knee reconstruction. Fellow forward Warren Jowitt had major surgery on his knee yesterday, while centre Danny Peacock is a couple of weeks away from a similar operation.

"They will all be out for the rest of the season, but at least there has been progress in all three cases," said Elliott.

The coach reported an upbeat mood as the squad step up their preparations for the clash with the Rhinos.

"The overall feeling was that we put some things right against Huddersfield, but we still need to improve in lots of areas. With all due respect, we met the bottom team in the competition on Sunday and on Friday we are at the other end of the scale completely."

Tickets for the match, which cost £16 (£9 concessions) and £9 standing (£5 concessions) are available at Odsal this week in an attempt to ease congestion at the turnstiles.

However, Leeds have refused to make any concessions for children.

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