Paul Rowley said his side would act immediately if offered a spot in the Championship

Newly-formed Toronto Wolfpack would be ready to step in and take Bradford's place in the Kingstone Press Championship if given the chance, says head coach Paul Rowley.

The Rugby Football League caused a stir by offering the defunct Bulls the chance to stay in the second tier of the professional game under new ownership rather than starting at the bottom of the pyramid, as the Wolfpack are doing in League 1.

The Canadian newcomers are gearing up for the start of the season in March, using training facilities in West Yorkshire, but Rowley says they would be keen to start in the Championship if the opportunity arose.

"We weren't sounded out and nor were any of the Cumbrian clubs," Rowley told Press Association Sport.

"We fully supported starting at the bottom, I think that's right.

"But, if you are asking me if we would take the opportunity, absolutely yes, we would go now. I know that Barrow would do the same, I'm not too sure about the other two, Whitehaven and Workington, although I'd be surprised if they refused it.

Former Super League and World Club champions Bradford Bulls have been liquidated after a bid to save the club was rejected Former Super League and World Club champions Bradford Bulls have been liquidated after a bid to save the club was rejected

"The whole situation is confusing and not consistent with messages that have been given out previously when other clubs have been in similar situations. It creates unrest and debate.

"The one thing we all agree on is that we all want Bradford strong and safe but we do with Sheffield and York and other clubs as well so it's no different. The rules need to be laid down early and then nobody can complain.

"Who knows but if someone asks us the question, then we're ready. But really the option, if it's going to anyone, should go to the Cumbrian clubs - two got relegated and one missed out on promotion.

"That's what I believe but, if someone wants to give it to us, we'll take it."

Toronto have signed former Salford prop forward Adam Sidlow from Bradford to take their number of full-time players to 22, not including three trialists who came from the club's scouting mission in Jamaica and North America.

"It's not enough for the rigours of the season," admitted Rowley. "We're thin in some areas.

"But we've set ourselves a budget and we want to stick within that. We're pretty much done but we'll keep looking."

Wolfpack will play the second of two opposed training sessions with Halifax on Saturday and one against Huddersfield next week before playing friendlies against Hull and Wigan.