Bradford Bulls back row forward James Donaldson is facing a six-month lay-off after scans revealed he has a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

The 20-year-old Donaldson, who missed six months of the 2010 season with a similar injury, damaged his knee in the win at Castleford Tigers eight days ago and will undergo surgery later this week.

Bulls football manager Stuart Duffy said: “It’s a big blow for James and everyone at the club is disappointed for him.

“However he has shown the tenacity to overcome this kind of injury before and we have no doubt he has the determination to do so again.

“He will be given every encouragement and assistance by the club during his lay-off.”