Prop Lynch on mend after surgery

Lynch withdrew from England's World Cup plans in September

Surgery to resolve prop Andy Lynch's neck injury has been branded a success by Bradford Bulls coach Steve McNamara.

But the 29-year-old forward will still miss the first month of the new season.

"Andy Lynch's neck operation was very successful," said McNamara, who also revealed that winger Tame Tupou is on the mend after a knee operation.

"Tame should be there or thereabouts after his knee reconstruction. Other than that, we should be pretty much at full strength."

Lynch is a pivotal member of McNamara's side, having won the player of the year award last season.

He has struggled with pain in his neck, shoulder and later his hand and he withdrew from England's World Cup plans in September to concentrate on regaining his fitness.

The Bulls have been busy in the close season, bringing in Steve Menzies, Nick Scruton, Rikki Sheriffe and Michael Worrincy to replace the outgoing Joe Vagana, Iestyn Harris, James Evans, Chris Feather and Simon Finnigan.

McNamara has also promoted a host of youngsters into his first-team squad.

"I'm very happy with the group we've got," he said. "We've invested heavily in time and effort in the off season, and the guys have responded magnificently. They are as close a bunch as I've seen.

"There are a lot of young boys out there. There's very much more of a youthful and athletic look about the Bulls."

Bradford kick off their season at Harlequins on 8 February.