Kurt Haggerty signs 'Mr Fix-It' for Bradford Bulls' Super League return
Bradford Bulls head coach Kurt Haggerty has hailed Joe Mellor as a "very important signing" after linking back up with the versatile playmaker at Odsal.
The pair spent time together at Widnes Vikings, Leigh Leopards and Salford Red Devils, giving Haggerty a trusted lieutenant at a crucial stage of Bradford’s rebuild.
Mellor joins the Bulls for their Super League return after making 33 appearances in two seasons with Salford.
"I've worked with Joe at nearly every club I've been to and have pushed to get him at every club I've been to because he understands the style of play I want," said Haggerty.
"He is a fantastic person, the ultimate competitor and a very good, established Super League player. He can play in multiple positions. He's almost a Mr Fix-It who can play six, seven or nine; you could put him at full-back and he'll do a first-class job.
"He has won numerous Super League games. He won the Challenge Cup a few years ago so this is a really big signing, a very important signing for us.
"He's a player that probably goes under the radar. He is probably undervalued but is someone I think highly of and think is a fantastic player."
Mellor becomes Bradford's 14th new signing for their first season back at the top level, joining former Salford team-mates Jayden Nikorima, Ethan Ryan and Loghan Lewis at Odsal.
The Bulls face Hull FC in their opening game before home dates with Catalans Dragons and Toulouse Olympique.
"It's exciting times for the whole club," said Mellor.
"I wanted to stay in Super League as I still feel I have got a lot to offer. Kurt being here was a massive draw. He knows how I like to play and I know the style of rugby he wants to play.
"Everyone is working towards that first game. Then we have a couple of games after at home which will be massive for the fans to turn up knowing we're back in Super League. It's really exciting."