NATHAN BROWN won’t allow a lack of preparation to be used as an excuse for an under-par Huddersfield Giants display at home to Castleford tomorrow night (8.00).

Huddersfield host the Tigers knowing a Galpharm victory will cement their position at the top of the Super League XVII table.

But Brown’s men will head into the top-flight tussle with seven members of the side having missed the bulk of this week’s training runs.

Danny Brough, Eorl Crabtree and Leroy Cudjoe have been in training camp with England, while Shaun Lunt, Jermaine McGillvary, Larne Patrick and Joe Wardle have been with England Knights.

As a result, the Huddersfield internationals will only be involved in the final run-through before they tackle the Tigers.

And Brown has made it clear he doesn’t expect that to affect the way the leaders play as they bid to make it six wins from seven starts.

“This week has been different,” acknowledged Brown.

“But when every club in Super League is in the same boat there’s no point complaining about it.

“We’ve had a fair number away, while Castleford have also been without three or four.

“And when you look at Leeds, they’ve had about 13 away!

“On top of that, it’s been a short week anyway, having played Sunday and now tomorrow, which is always going to limit your preparation.

“So I just expect everyone to get on with it, continue to do a good job and put in the performance that will keep us at the top. There are no excuses.”