DALE FERGUSON’S loan departure to Hull KR could leave the way clear for Ukuma Ta’ai to make his Huddersfield Giants debut this weekend.

Huddersfield’s big new signing has already set his sights on forcing his way into the squad for Sunday’s opening home Super League XVIII clash against London Broncos (3.00).

And even though a delay in receiving a work permit meant the 25-year-old former New Zealand Warriors back-row forward didn’t arrive in England until the middle of this week, it has still prompted the Giants to allow Ferguson to move to the Robins on a month’s loan.

Ferguson was 18th man for Huddersfield in Saturday’s stunning 40-4 opening-night win at St Helens.

That role now seems certain to be taken by Ta’ai, although he still has training sessions today and tomorrow morning to convince Giants coach Paul Anderson to promote him into the 17. There is strong competition from Brett Ferres, Jason Chan, Luke O’Donnell, David Faiumu and Jamie Cording.

“The arrival of Ta’ai obviously gives us even more options in the back row,” said Anderson, who says O’Donnell is ignoring speculation of a return to the Australian NRL with Sydney Roosters and focusing 100% on the Giants.

“And they’re quality options. Because those back-rowers who are playing at the moment are playing so well has meant someone like Dale has flown under the radar a bit.

“He’s a quality player and really does need to be playing Super League, and this deal with Hull KR will means he’s fully match fit.

“At the same time, fitness is the key when it comes to Ukuma. We’ll look at him in training.”