DANNY Addy has hailed Andy Lynch as a “true professional” ahead of the former Bradford captain’s testimonial match on Sunday.

Addy is delighted to be crossing swords with his old team-mate in the Bulls’ opening pre-season friendly.

He was an aspiring Super League star in the youth ranks at Odsal when he first encountered the veteran Castleford prop.

Addy said: “Lynchy was someone I looked up to when I was coming through at Bradford because he’s a true professional.

“He was a good bloke to learn from because he does all the little things right.

“When I was a young lad, I was working and training part-time at Bradford. But then I got laid off from work and came in at Bradford under Steve Mac (McNamara).

“I wasn’t getting paid full-time, though, and there was me, Wagga (Wayne Godwin), Keal Carlile, Lynchy and Langers (Jamie Langley) all travelling in together.

“Ever since then, going on to play with Lynchy was awesome and he’s someone I have the greatest of respect for.

“Like I say, he does all the little things right and was outstanding for Cas last year. I’m delighted to be playing in his testimonial game.”

Pontefract lad Addy admits he cannot wait to run out at Wheldon Road on Sunday as he looks to establish himself in Jimmy Lowes’ side.

Addy proved himself one of the most versatile players in Super League in recent seasons but is now keen to nail down a regular spot at loose forward.

The 23-year-old said: “It has been a long pre-season and everyone is just raring to go now.

“I can’t wait to blow the cobwebs off on Sunday and get back into it. It’s a big year for me and a big year for Bradford.

“Hopefully I can cement a starting spot in the team at loose forward and be recognised as one of the main players.

“That’s definitely what I’ll be looking to do after a good pre-season where I’ve been working very hard.”

Addy helped Scotland to win the European Championship during the autumn and added: “I really enjoyed that.

“I played in all three games (against Wales, Ireland and France) and it was just as good as playing in the World Cup the year before.

“They’re a great set of lads to play with and it was another fantastic experience.”