Rick Stone knows it’s vital the Huddersfield Giants take full advantage of having a virtually fully-fit squad heading into the Middle 8s.

Apart from long-term absentee Daniel Smith (broken foot), the new head coach could have every player at his disposal for Huddersfield’s battle for Super League survival.

Scott Grix (knee) was desperately close to being available for last weekend’s trip to Warrington, while Jermaine McGillvary (quad), Tom Symonds (calf) and Joe Wardle (knee) are on the verge of making their returns.

And Stone knows that’s a healthy state of affairs – both in terms of playing and training – the Giants must act upon.

“Clearly the more senior players you have available, the better,” said the former Newcastle Knights and Fiji boss.

“It gives you more options in the games, and competition for places is always good.

“But having a fit and healthy squad also means you can get more quality work done on the training ground, which is the case for us right now.

“As well as the seniors, we’ve had some of the Academy boys in so we can do some opposed work. For me, that’s invaluable.

“It really gives me the ideal opportunity to put some new structures in place and make sure we’re as well prepared for next Sunday’s game at Salford as we possibly can be.”

New Head coach Stone took the chance to watch the Giants Academy Under 19 side take on London Broncos at Lockwood Park – which was won 64-12 by the home side.