Championship side Bradford Bulls have landed an absolute coup as they’ve brought in former NRL talent Jayden Okunbor on a short-term loan from Hull FC.
It’s been a huge fall from grace for Hull FC’s major pre-season signing with the 27-year-old featuring in the first eight Super League games for the Black and Whites, however, he’s yet to play a game under Simon Grix.
In fact, Okunbor has instead been representing the Hull FC Reserve side, but now he will head to the Championship in a short-term loan deal that could see him regain some form.
Okunbor’s stint in Super League so far has probably been best surmised by Tony Smith comparing the 27-year-old’s failure to transition to stars such as Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Trent Barrett.
After question marks surrounding Okunbor’s initial performances in a Hull FC shirt, Smith revealed that there had been question marks about Shaun Kenny-Dowall at Hull KR initially and that Okunbor simply needed time. He also namechecked Trent Barrett in a similar comparison.
For Okunbor though, his time at Hull FC has run out for now with the club opting to send him on loan to Bradford Bulls.
His departure marks yet more change at Hull FC with the club being incredibly busy of late with incomings such as Tom Briscoe, Ben Reynolds and Yusuf Aydin.
NRL signing for Hull FC heads out on loan to Bradford Bulls
Credit: Imago Images
Bradford confirmed the signing earlier today with the Bulls set for a huge weekend as they aim to earn a place at Wembley in the 1895 Cup Final when they face Wakefield Trinity.
For that game, the Bulls have drafted in another Hull FC player Liam Tindall with the winger arriving on loan, but Okunbor joins too now, however, he won’t be available for the clash against Trinity.
Bradford confirmed the news via their website with a statement reading: “Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of former NRL star Jayden Okunbor on short term loan from Hull FC.
“Standing tall at 6ft 5in, Okunbor primarily features in the centres or on the wing but has also featured in the back row for the Airlie Birds in Super League.
“Australian-born, Jayden came through the pathway system at Canterbury Bulldogs before going on to make his NRL debut in 2019 against Wests Tigers.”
Head Coach Eamon O’Carroll spoke on the signing, stating: “We are pleased to be able to bring in someone with the experience of Jayden.
“After speaking to Jayden, he made his intentions clear that he wants to get back to playing his best rugby at a competitive level. I know our environment and the people in here will give him the best opportunity to get back to his best.
“He has a good skill set and will add some presence to our group in the outside backs. I’d like to thank Richie Myler and Simon Grix for their help and support over the last week in allowing both Jayden and Liam to join our club.”
