New Bradford deal for Luke Gale

Bradford have fought off advances from other Super League clubs to keep hold of half-back Luke Gale.

Gale, 24, has signed a new improved contract with the club to keep him at Odsal until the end of 2015 season.

He joined the Bulls from Harlequins at the start of 2012, and scored 143 points in his first year, despite missing 10 games with an ankle injury.

Gale said: “It’s brilliant to put pen to paper and sign a long-term deal. I spoke to Franny Cummins and he is really positive about next year.  His ideas sound brilliant and I’m really looking forward to getting on board with him.

“Yes, I did have a few other offers but I sat down with my agent and with Franny and he outlined the plans he has for both me and the club.  Franny really wanted me at Bradford and I wanted to stay, so he showed faith in me and I showed faith in him. I’m looking forward to building on that partnership with him.”

Gale is a product of the Leeds academy, but had to step down to the Championship 1 with Doncaster before catching the eye again, and landing his move to the capital.

Bulls Head Coach Francis Cummins said: “There were some supporting artists during 2012 but Galey was very much the heartbeat of the team. Along with the young lads, he will form the backbone of the team we’ve got going forward.

“He’s come to Bradford and is now in the England Knights squad and I’m delighted to have signed him for the next three years.”