BRADFORD Bulls seem to have pulled off a great steal by recruiting two England academy internationals from Leeds Rhinos.

Joe Burton and Rian Rowley will join Leigh Beattie’s under-19s for the 2021 campaign.

The former, 18, mainly plays full back but can do a job across the back line, while Rowley brings size, power and aggression to the academy pack.

Head of youth Beattie is looking forward to the prospect of working with the pair in the new year.

He said: “I am really excited to have signed Joe and Rian – both players have come through the Leeds ranks so we know they will come with good foundations.

“Joe is a great prospect. He has great feet and can feature anywhere in the backline and Rian is a big, hardworking middle man.

“They will both add value to our side and, along with a number of our academy lads, I hope they will be pushing for a first team spot next year.”

“I am very pleased to have joined Bradford,” said Burton.

"I think it is a great opportunity for me to develop as a player at a club which is of Super League standard.

“The academy production line at Bradford is one of the main reasons why I joined.

"I really like how the club gives opportunities to young players and there are plenty of chances to progress into the first team.

“I want to make a good impression in 2021, show what I can do, and earn a first team contract with the Bulls.”

Fellow new recruit Rowley added: “I am really pleased to have been given a chance at such a big club like Bradford that has a lot of history and enjoyed great success.

“The club has produced some of the best players in the world through their academy system which excites me and motivates me to work as hard as possible.

“Next year I am hoping to continue to develop my own game and to work hard for a first team spot.”