Super League 2014: Former Bradford Bulls prop Brian McDermott believes glory days are not that far away for his old club

Bulls have struggled in recent years but McDermott believes they can get back on the track to success

Brian McDermott believes his former club Bradford Bulls can get back to their past glory days with the right changes (Getty Images)

Former Bradford prop Brian McDermott insists it will not be an insurmountable task for his old club to bring back the glory days.

The Bulls are currently bottom of the First Utility Super League on minus two after having six points deducted for going into administration and losing their past five matches.

But they have launched an appeal to win back the docked points and coach Francis Cummins has been promised cash by the club's new owner to strengthen his squad for their battle against relegation.

Bradford, world club champions only eight years ago, will receive a reminder of their halcyon days when wing favourite Lesley Vainikolo returns to Odsal as a guest for Thursday night's derby with Leeds, whose coach McDermott would love to see their fortunes revived.

"I spent 10 years there and enjoyed it immensely," McDermott said. "I just hope they get back to where they used to be.

"Some tough decisions have to be made but I don't think it's as big a task as we imagine it to be.

"Leeds-Bradford derbies used to be big occasions and we all can't wait for the day that comes back. As it stands now, Bradford aren't where they want to be.

"They've been through a bit of turmoil but, regardless of that, they will be good against us. There will be a little spike in their performance and we've been preparing for a good Bradford all week."

Bradford have arguably the toughest Easter assignment in Super League, with Thursday's game against high-flying Leeds followed by a trip to reigning champions Wigan on Easter Monday.

"That's what you want, to be honest," Cummins said. "We want to be on top of our form and we know we've got to be as well.

"I'm seeing good signs in the team. We are looking quite good in training and we've just got to take it out on the field."

Thursday's match marks hooker Rob Burrow's 400th appearance for Leeds, while full-back Brett Kearney will bring up his 100th for the Bulls.

Lee Radford is no stranger to Hull derbies but his first as a head coach promises to be an emotional roller-coaster.

The 221st derby at the KC Lightstream Stadium looks too close to call with both Hull KR and Radford's Hull FC registering their best wins of the season last weekend.

"It's two points but it's a special two points," Radford said. "It's a shot in the arm for the club if we can get a result and it's a shot in the arm for me because I can take my kids to school or rugby training without getting any stick.

"That's what the derby is when you live in Hull. It's a massive game around the area, however involved you are in the club."

In Thursday's other game, London Broncos seek to break their duck when Catalan Dragons visit The Hive.

PA