JAMES Mendeika revealed the influence of Jimmy Lowes persuaded him to join the Bulls from Championship rivals Featherstone.

The 23-year-old played under Lowes at Warrington and has become reunited with his former coach with immediate effect on a deal until the end of the 2017 season.

The utility player progressed through the academy ranks at Warrington and has also had spells at Leigh, Swinton and London Broncos.

He played a key role in Ireland’s 2013 World Cup campaign, lining up at full back and stand-off in games against England, Australia and Fiji.

The Manchester-born player, who has also featured at centre and on the wing, said: "I am absolutely over the moon to be joining Bradford, I feel extremely privileged and cannot wait to get going.

"It is great to be back within a full-time environment and I am looking forward to repaying the faith the club has shown in me.”

"James Lowes being here as head coach was a massive part of me agreeing to come here. He played a massive part in the club’s ten years of success and I am sure he will do the same again over the next ten years.

"He is a great coach and I am excited to be working under him again. He will really develop my game.

"I would like to think I can bring pace and skill to the team. I have enjoyed training so far and am looking forward to ripping in again from Monday.

"I am looking to earn my stripes and force my way into the team. I want to achieve big things here and I believe I am capable of doing so.

"I came here because I believe in the direction the club is heading in. Where the Bulls might well be in a couple of years’ time excites me and I want to be a part of it."

Bradford boss Lowes gave Mendeika his first-ever taste of first-team rugby for Warrington in a pre-season game against Wigan Warriors seven years ago.

"James is a very talented, up and coming player and we are pleased to have secured his services," added the Bulls chief.

"I had him at Warrington and was very impressed with what he had to offer then.

"Injuries have set him back a little over the past couple of years but he has a long career ahead and he is certainly looking to make a name for himself here.

"He has trained once with the boys this week and I am sure he will settle in well."