Ireland star Joe Keyes signs full-time deal with Bradford

Ireland international Joe Keyes has signed a full-time two-year contract with Bradford.

The 23-year-old played a key role in helping the Bulls gain promotion to the Championship.

Keyes, who has earned six caps for Ireland, has penned a full-time deal with the Bulls for the next two years.

On extending his Odsal stay, Keyes said: “It was a fairly difficult transition for me going part-time, so I’m really looking forward to my focus being on my rugby and looking after my body.

“Working with John [Kear] has been great so far. Ever since round one last year, it’s always been clear what he wants from me and that’s all you can ask for from a coach.

“There will be a lot of competition for places in the squad, so training will be intense and hopefully this will bring out the best in everyone.

“I just want to keep on improving and hopefully get some good game time for Ireland, then take that into pre-season and hopefully a big 2019.”