Bradford sign James Clare and Matt Ryan
Bradford Bulls have added two experienced names to their squad as the Super 8s section of the season approaches.
Utility back James Clare has signed from Castleford Tigers, while prop Matt Ryan has signed for them after leaving Wakefield.
Clare has signed a deal with the Bulls until the end of 2016, and, although it was difficult to leave Cas, he is relishing the challenge of attempting to reach Super League with Bradford.
“It’s been incredibly difficult to have to leave my home town club, but with limited chances at Cas, due to them having arguably the two best wingers in Super League in Denny and Justin, it made this a tough year for me,” he said.
“Bradford offered me an opportunity to really challenge myself personally as a player, and I’m really excited to take on that challenge.
“It’s clear to see what they’re building and hopefully I can play a part in helping them return to their former glory.
“I also wish Castleford all the luck in the world for the future. The players and coaching staff have been brilliant with me over the last few years and I feel that they really deserve something special to remember.
I’ll still remain a Castleford Tigers fan and hope to watch them win a Grand Final very soon.
“I met James Lowes last week and he did not really have to sell [Bradford] to me.
“From the outside you could see what is going on here and what Bradford are trying to build.
“It is going to be a fresh start for me and hopefully I can play a part in getting the club back into Super League.
“I would really like to be involved at Halifax this weekend.
“Hopefully I can put my foot in the door and try to hold on to a shirt for the Super 8s.”
Ryan, who can play at centre as well as at prop, has signed a deal at the Bulls until the end of the 2015 season.
“I got the opportunity to come here and could not say no,” he said.
“It is a great club with plenty of history. I am here to do a job for Bradford and, hopefully, get them promoted to Super League.
“There is definitely a winning atmosphere about the place and such confidence will help us going into the Super 8s.”
