Bulls’ new man Nick Scruton says he’s never been so keen before the start of a new season.

The countdown is on to Super League’s kick-off and the burly prop is anticipating it more than ever.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been this excited about it all starting,” he said.

“I really can’t wait. I’m playing at a new club, which is one reason, and I’m just looking forward to getting into action with all the lads here.

“There’s such a good vibe about the place and I’ve been blown away by it.

“It’s been awesome and now there’s not long to go.”

Scruton has been in full training for a fortnight, having had the pot taken off his broken wrist.

He admits it came as a massive relief after earlier feeling like a caged tiger.

“Training with the cast on since the start of pre-season had been a bit of a nightmare,” said the powerful front-rower.

“Since coming here from Leeds, all I wanted to do was rip straight into pre-season but I couldn’t really do that because of the injury.

“I tried to do as much as I could though and make an impression but recently it’s been great knowing I can now do everything.

“It was brilliant to be told by the specialist I could start up again.”

The Bulls will need the Grand Final winner to burst straight into form at his new club, with main prop Andy Lynch sidelined for the opening weeks.

Scruton – who turned 24 on Christmas Eve – is ready to step up to the plate though and is confident Bradford can go on to challenge his old pals for the Super League title.

“I’ve been impressed by what I’ve seen so far,” he said.

“If we can stay fit and keep the troops out on the field, I feel we will definitely be there or thereabouts. The kids here have really done well also and I know if we have to call on them they won’t let us down.

“There’s plenty to be excited about at Bradford.”

But it is one of Scruton’s other former clubs – Hull FC – who he feels could mount a surprise bid.

The Airlie Birds may have struggled all last season but the player, who spent time on loan at the KC Stadium, said: “I reckon they’re due a big year.

“I do think Hull will be good this season as it has been a couple since they’ve done anything.

“They had a lot of players injured last time but once they’re all back they will be strong and I feel Michael Crocker will be a quality signing from Australia.”