THE Bulls’ international contingent will be given an extended breather before they start preparing for next year’s Championship return.

Six of John Kear’s squad have been called up by their respective countries, with the European Championship World Cup qualifiers kicking off today.

The Bulls players are due to reconvene at Tong from Monday, November 19 to begin the slog to get in fighting shape for their first season back in the second tier.

But Kear, who is leading Wales against France in Carcassone this afternoon, will give those still playing some extra time away to recharge the batteries.

He said: “They’ll come back later than the lads who’ve just played club rugby. They do need rest and recuperation so they’ll be right for next season.

“When you think, last year we started on Boxing Day with Halifax. Some of these lads will be playing on November 11 – so it’s a hell of a long season.

“Part of coaching is also management and it’s managing these players so that they do feel as if they are re-enthused and rested and ready for the rigours of pre-season.”

Ethan Ryan is excited at the prospect of making his international debut for Ireland today.

The Bulls winger is in the 19-man squad to face Scotland in their European Championship opener alongside club team-mate Gregg McNally. Joe Keyes has been involved in the training camp but has not been selected.

The call-up caps a special season for Ryan, who was named League One’s young player of the year after scoring 36 tries.

It also makes up for the disappointment of not making it into the World Cup squad last year.

Ryan said: “To be called up to play for your country and play at that international level is a real positive end to the campaign.

“There is a good mix of players in the squad. I think there are some domestic players playing in Ireland and they are trying to grow the game out there, which can only mean good things.

“There are a few Super League players but the different levels mean you can take bits from each other’s games and experience and teach each other. I’m sure it’ll be a great atmosphere.”

Dalton Grant is in Kear’s Welsh squad, while Ross Peltier and Jon Magrin have been called up by Jamaica ahead of their World Cup qualifiers with America, Canada and Chile.