Bradford Bulls bolster squad with signing of former Super League forward

Josh McAllister
Josh Johnson. PA

Bradford Bulls have strengthened their forward pack ahead of the 2023 Championship campaign with the signing of Josh Johnson.

The 28-year-old makes the switch from Widnes, having requested an early release from his contract with the club.

Johnson made his debut with Huddersfield back in 2013, and went on to also feature for Salford in Super League.

He won promotion with Hull KR from the Championship in 2017 and played for Barrow in the second division in 2019.

Johnson on joining Bradford Bulls

“I am really looking forward to getting stuck in,” said Johnson.

“Having spoken to Mark (Dunning) I made my mind up quick.

“There are some good people here. I have met a few of the boys and I played with a few of them earlier in my career as well so there are a few familiar faces should be easy to settle in.

“I have had a good mix of Super League and Championship in my career and the Championship has only got stronger. It will be tough and there will be times when we are challenged but looking at the squad, it is exciting.

“That is the main goal (promotion). But you have got to set short-term goals first and foremost and build.

“Let’s build into the season, keep the excitement building and see where we go.”

Head coach Mark Dunning added: “It’s a two-year deal for this year and next. We’re giving Josh that certainty and home grown feeling.

“He is excited to get back into it and start enjoying his rugby and feel like he belongs somewhere so its somewhere he can hopefully put roots down and enjoy his rugby and show the fans what he’s capable of.

“We are getting a player in his prime, a bloke that is desperate to come to this club. He wanted to come here and had a real desire to contribute to his group.

“We have had a couple of chats but we know enough about each other to know what we want and we know his commitment to this group.

“This is a real exciting time and he is another important addition to the team.”

The prop becomes the 13th new face to join the club prior to the start of the 2023 season

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