ANONYMOUS sponsors have made the signing of James Evans possible.

Huddersfield Giants officials have admitted that if it wasn't for the financial support of several of the club's closest backers, there's no way they could have afforded to sign a player of Evans' status.

The exciting deal to land the signature of Evans was finalised by Giants general manager Richard Thewlis.

But he admits that it took a lot of hard work and effort to finally get their man.

"This recruitment of James Evans, who is a top-quality individual and player, is a real boost for everyone at the club and is the result of a lot of hard work by a number of people," said Thewlis.

"A number of our closest sponsors have been involved in this move, and while they don't want the limelight, it is only right to publicly thank them for helping us to make this mid-season addition.

"It wasn't something we had specifically planned for, but when the opportunity became available we had their backing.

"And I'm sure that they, like us, are extremely keen to see James slot into our squad and assist our push for a top-six spot."

The 25-year-old Evans managed to persuade Canberra Raiders to grant him a release two weeks ago in order that he could fulfil his dream of playing in the UK. His parents are from Wales.

Several top-flight British clubs were keen to sign him when he became available.

But Raiders coach Matthew Elliott pushed Evans in the Giants' direction, and the rest is history.

"I'm excited at the opportunity of playing for the Giants," said Evans before leaving Australia.

"I've done my research on the club and it's clearly one that's moving forward and I'm grateful for the chance to be involved.

"I've always wanted to play in the English Super League and I'm excited about playing under Jon Sharp and his coaching staff.

"I can't wait to arrive, start playing and make my dream come true."

The 6ft 2in, 15st back had made a positive start to his season in the NRL with Canberra.

He played in five of the six opening rounds with the Raiders as they reached fourth in the League ladder.

And that was in stark contrast to a nightmare 2003.

That year he was forced to undergo a knee reconstruction which set him back 13 months.

But his five performances this season - he has started every game at centre, but can also play at stand-off - have shown he is already back to his best.