Olivier Elima sees no reason why the Bulls can’t challenge for silverware in 2011.

Signed from Catalans Dragons at the end of last season, the Frenchman only joined up with his new team-mates last month but has been encouraged by initial impressions.

Elima starts the new campaign hoping to banish memories of a disappointing 2010, having finished rock bottom of Super League with the Dragons.

Similarly, the Bulls have failed to reach the play-offs two years running, yet the powerful back-rower feels that should have no bearing on future prospects.

He said: “We are aiming to finish as high as we can and definitely make the play-offs. With the team that we’ve got I think we can get back to winning ways. Silverware is definitely achievable.

“The results in recent years haven’t matched the club’s status. Looking at the size of this club, we definitely should be looking at a top-three finish.

“With the squad we’ve got I think that’s more than possible, and maybe bring some silverware back where it belongs at Bradford.”

Training alongside his fellow players has only fuelled Elima’s optimism.

The 27-year-old has been impressed with progress made in pre-season and the all-round professionalism of the Bradford set-up.

“They’ve got great facilities for training so I’m really happy with that,” said Elima. “It’s all in the same place – weights, pitches, physio, it’s all on site – and that’s great for everyone to hang around and see each other.

“Great facilities come with a great club and that’s what this is.

“They are a good bunch here, very welcoming, and everyone is working really hard to reach our goals.”

* The Bulls confirmed yesterday that George Burgess had left the club and joined brother Sam at South Sydney after finalising a two-year deal.

The move was agreed earlier this month but red tape prevented the official announcement being made.

An undisclosed transfer fee has been agreed between the two clubs for the 18-year-old, who recently played for England Academy in their Test victories over Australian Schoolboys.

Burgess also had a clause written into his contract giving the Bulls first option if he decides to return to Super League.