Huddersfield Giants coach Paul Anderson would be delighted if 2016 proved to be Oliver Roberts’ year.
The 19-year-old back-row forward was unable to break into Huddersfield’s Super League side last season following his move from Bradford Bulls at the end of the 2014 campaign.
But even though his only taste of first-team action was on dual-registration at Oldham and on-loan at Sheffield Eagles, Roberts still made a massive impact for Ireland in their recent European Championship campaign against Wales, Scotland and France.
And Anderson is hoping that can be a launchpad for his Giants career.
“As a club, we feel a little embarrassed over what’s happened to Oli this year,” said Anderson.
“The one thing he’s not done is play rugby league for us, which is what we’d obviously signed him to do.
“It’s not good to have to say that he’s now halfway through a two-year Giants contract and he’s not played yet.
“Unfortunately for Oli, the health of the squad throughout the year has dictated he couldn’t get a game for us, but he still knows that could easily change.
“And what he’s done with Ireland over the past month won’t have done him any harm at all.
“From the reports I’ve received, he’s been Ireland’s best forward in the European Championship series. Scott Grix has been telling me he’s seen a different side to Oli during his time with the Irish camp.
“Grixy’s been very impressed with the way he’s progressed and matured over the past few months, so I’m really looking forward to seeing him play for us next season.
“The lad definitely deserves a big year next year, and I’d be delighted if he did.”
