BIG Jim Gannon could be back to face York City Knights at the McAlpine on Sunday (3.00) as the Giants bid to reach the last four of the Powergen Challenge Cup for the first time in 33 years.

The Aussie prop-forward has not played since he suffered a badly damaged thumb in the pre-season defeat at Leeds Rhinos.

The 26-year-old will undergo a check on the injury later this week when he is expected to receive the big all-clear.

If that proves the case, it means long-term injury victim Paul White - who broke a leg during the pre-season clash against Castleford - would be the only player in the Giants Super League squad not available for selection.

That's because all 17 who played in Sunday's bruising top-flight McAlpine defeat by Bradford Bulls have been passed fit to play.

The availability of so many players presents coach Jon Sharp with a major selection headache, although he's obviously prepared to live with that.

"All the boys have come in to training looking fresh, and raring to go again," reported a delighted Sharp.

"That's great, especially after the tough nature of the game against the Bulls.

"You always expect to pick up knocks against Bradford, and there are the usual bumps and bruises.

"But there's nothing that causes me any great concern.

"Obviously, Brandon Costin and Darren Turner were a little sore after playing their first match since injury, but they are both okay.

"And at this stage I'm fairly confident they could be joined on the fit-again list by Jim Gannon.

"We just need to take a precautionary check on him later in the week.

"He's obviously been able to keep himself in good shape, because the injury has been to his hand and has not prevented him from doing general fitness work.

"Having Jim back would be another great boost for everyone as we prepare for another very big game for this club."