EORL CRABTREE is convinced his England Four Nations experience will have made him a better player for the Giants.
Although England were beaten 46-16 by Australia in Saturday’s final and former Giants chief Tony Smith has stepped down as national coach, Crabtree greatly enhanced his reputation during the tournament.
The 27-year-old produced three powerful performances from the bench, twice against the Kangaroos and once in the memorable triumph over world champions New Zealand at the Galpharm nine days ago.
Those displays earned the Giants prop a place in the official Four Nations Team of the Tournament.
And Crabtree is now hoping he can build on that form as Huddersfield begin the countdown to Super League XV with today’s start to pre-season training.
“I’ve loved every minute of this experience and I’m sure it will stand me in good stead for the future,” said Crabtree, who is having a short break before re-joining his clubmates.
“Over the past few weeks I’ve tested myself against some of the best players in the world, and I think I made major inroads.
“That’s made me believe in myself a bit more, because there were times in the past when I wasn’t picked for internationals when I began to doubt myself. Not any more.
“I’ll now go back to the Giants with the extra motivation of knowing I can be an even better player.
“I’m looking forward to going back and working under Nathan (Brown) and with the boys.”
