Nick Scruton reckons the Bulls’ new recruits will inspire the rest of Mick Potter’s squad to raise their game next season.

Competition for places is set to intensify following the acquisition of Keith Lulia, Adrian Purtell, Manase Manuokafoa, Luke Gale, Jarrod Sammut and Elliot Kear.

Scruton not only applauds the quality of the six new signings – he feels their arrival will help to lift performance levels throughout the side.

The 26-year-old prop, currently working his way towards full fitness after an injury-ravaged 2011, is particularly looking forward to being reunited with Gale, his former Leeds academy team-mate.

Scruton said: “I think every player we’ve signed will strengthen us and competition for places can only be a good thing for the club.

“If it doesn’t bring the best out in you then I don’t think you should be playing in this team.

“I’m looking forward to having Luke Gale with us because we were short in the halves last season.

“I played with Galey in the academy at Leeds and he’s got a mouth on him, but in a good way. He will push everybody round the field and is not scared to tell them if they’re not doing their job.”

Potter, meanwhile, returned from Australia to Bradford yesterday and is expected to take his first training session of pre-season this morning.

Bulls players past and present gathered at St John’s Church, Coley yesterday for the funeral of club doctor Roger Brown.

The 53-year-old, who had performed the role at Odsal since the start of the 2002 season, recently passed away following a short illness.