WALKER PENS PERMANENT DEAL

WE are delighted to announce Anthony Walker has signed a permanent deal with the club - following a successful trial period!

The 29-year-old returns to the sport following a four-year lay-off – having been told to retire due to an underlying brain abnormality (arteriovenous malformation) diagnosed in 2017.

Welshman Walker was handed a one-month trial by Bradford boss John Kear - in which he impressed with stand-out performances against Swinton Lions and Keighley Cougars.

The former Wakefield and St Helens star has spoken of his delight at securing a permanent stay in the red, amber and black – insisting he is feeling more comfortable on his return week by week. 

“I am buzzing to have signed – it has been a long time coming these last 12 months since I got the all clear but now to have the deal and the security I wanted is great,” said Walker. 

“The game feels a lot faster and it took me a while to adjust but I felt more comfortable last week, it is just getting used to the new rules defensively.

“I have always been in and around the boys but now I have signed and can officially play I feel like I am part of the squad.”

Head Coach Kear believes Walker’s extended stay will prove beneficial for his roster in 2021 – backing the forward to show what he’s capable of.

“I am delighted and really pleased for him – it is great for Bradford as he will add to our middle channel but it is also very good for the individual,” said Kear, who is sponsored by Bradford Bulls Banter.

“Ant has had four years out and come back like he has and we are really happy with him and are more than happy to offer him a deal.

“He will be very important for us this year – he has signed until the end of the year because he wants to show us how good he is, he backed himself to get back now he is backing himself to show his true worth and I am sure he will do that as well.”

The club would like to thank the Bradford Bulls Squad Booster Association for their contribution towards the deal.