GEORGE Flanagan wants to be a Bulls mentor for the younger generation after nailing another deal for next year.

The larger-than-life hooker has put pen to paper on another contract for 2021 as John Kear’s recruitment programme continues to go full steam ahead.

Local lad Flanagan is one of the big characters in the squad and Kear believes his presence on and off the field can play a significant part in the planned push for promotion from the Championship.

Flanagan is looking forward to helping up-and-coming hooker Thomas Doyle to develop while continuing to add his own personality to the team’s performances.

He said: “John has signed some quality players and us experienced lads will push the young ones.

“I have always said I’ll help the young lads out there. Young Doyley coming through is pulling trees down, he is full of enthusiasm and full of his game.

“I’m buzzing, absolutely delighted to be staying with my hometown club. It’s a massive gift so thanks to John and the coaching staff to offer me another deal – I’m really chuffed.”

Flanagan was limited to just four appearances in the curtailed 2020 campaign.

He missed the opening two Championship games against London and Featherstone at Dewsbury as part of last year’s lengthy ban for grabbing the testicles of Toronto Wolfpack’s Hakim Miloudi.

“It was a frustrating year for everyone,” he admitted. “I missed the first few games then I wanted to get back into the swing of things and thought we were building well before COVID hit.

“But I’m looking forward to getting started again next year.

“The fans have been brilliant. That so many have given their money back (from season-ticket sales) is testament to them.

“I have felt their pain as a Bradford fan and hopefully we can repay them on the pitch when they can come back.

“It’s good to be back around the lads. We have a WhatsApp group but to see everyone and feel the buzz around the place makes you excited to get going again.

“Hopefully it won’t be too long before we can do that.”

Kear has nearly completed piecing together his squad for when the Championship can resume next season.

His plan has been to retain as many of the current crop as possible and he sees Flanagan, who turns 34 next month, as an integral figure.

Flanagan will once again be one of the senior heads in the changing room – but not the oldest with 37-year-old Super League veteran Danny Brough coming on board for 2021.

Kear said: “George is really part of our group that adds something on and off the field.

“He has been tremendous regarding his leadership and on the field of play he offers a great deal. We have very good hookers and are blessed in this position.

“I am hoping he comes back and plays regularly and consistently and plays very well. I’m very pleased he has re-signed and he will contribute greatly in the next 12 months.

“We’ve got a nice blend of experienced and established, young and established and young and emerging. It’s a good mix and we need to get it right and I am sure we have.”