Mellor hoping to emulate feats of fellow Bradford products

Bradford Bulls youngster Alex Mellor has said he is attempting to follow in the footsteps of two famous Bulls Academy products who have since gone on to become top stars in the world of Rugby League.

Mellor is one of the Bulls’ prized assets in what has been a difficult year for the club, with the homegrown forward scoring a hat-trick last weekend in the unfamiliar position of centre.

And the youngster told the Telegraph and Argus that he is inspired by duo John Bateman and Elliott Whitehead – two former Bradford juniors who have since thrived at the top level, as well as becoming England internationals.

“You have role models and I’m definitely inspired by players who have left Bradford and done particularly well,” he said.

“John and Elliott were very good players for the Bulls and just look at the success they have gone on to achieve in their careers.

“Not only is Elliott is a great player, but also a great try-scorer.

“I like watching Boyd Cordner of the Sydney Roosters too because he’s not much older than me and is a really tough back-rower who scores tries as well.

“Players like that are great to watch and I’m really pleased to have added tries to my game this season.”