PAUL ANDERSON has admitted his Huddersfield Giants back-row options are giving him a big Super League headache – even without Michael Lawrence.

Huddersfield yesterday confirmed the 22-year-old will be sidelined for up to three months after suffering pulled left ankle ligaments during Sunday’s 36-12 home pre-season triumph over Widnes.

The former first-choice centre was among the favourites for a back-row start for the Giants’ Super League XVIII opener at St Helens on Saturday, February 2.

But even though Lawrence is no longer in the frame, Huddersfield chief Anderson knows he has some tough pack choices ahead of him.

“While the injury is a massive blow for Bruno (Lawrence), it’ll give someone a chance to come a stake a claim,” said Anderson.

“And when it comes to the back row we are blessed in having a number of options.

“We’ve got a number of blokes who have played in the position at the highest level (Jason Chan, Brett Ferres, Luke O’Donnell and Ukuma Ta’ai have all represented their country).

“But we’ve also got the likes of Jamie Cording, Jacob Fairbank and Dale Ferguson pushing hard for a spot.

“Fergy, in particular, is someone who has been flying under the radar a bit but made people sit up and take note with the way he played against Widnes.

“Everyone needs to keep working hard to make sure they play at Saints.”