SHANE ELFORD knows he can't take an immediate return to action for granted.
The 29-year-old former West Tigers utility back, pictured, was a key absentee in the Giants' side agonisingly beaten 18-14 at Bradford Bulls on Sunday.
The Australian was suffering with a chest infection and the decision was taken not to risk him on what was always going to be a heavy Odsal surface.
Elford was able to train yesterday and is expected to be available for Sunday's home Super League clash against Hull KR (3.00).
But with Paul Reilly having taken over on the wing and done an excellent job against the Bulls, Giants chief Jon Sharp now faces some very difficult decisions.
"Everyone knows how pleased I was with the performance at Bradford," said Sharp.
"Collectively and individually it was the best we've produced so far, with everyone making a full contribution.
"That obviously includes our wingers, Paul Reilly and Mat Gardner, who brought the ball back very strongly.
"They've both put themselves firmly in the frame for Sunday's game against Hull KR.
"And they needed to play well, because we were always confident Shane would be fit for this one.
"He really wasn't right for Bradford, and with the pitch bound to be heavy we felt it would be the last thing Shane needed.
"But all the signs suggest he should be available again this weekend, and that gives me a major headache.
"Shane is a top-class performer, but Paul and Mat showed they're too not bad either!"
