TOP Huddersfield Giants signing Jason Chan was excited to return to Australia to see his young family over Christmas.

But he’s just as excited about returning to Huddersfield to continue preparing for the start of Super League XVII.

The former Crusaders back-row forward missed the start of pre-season to be back in Australia with his wife, Rochelle, ahead of the birth of their first child, Araiah Chellae, on November 15.

That meant Chan didn’t arrive at his new club until a week later and he’s now jetted back ‘home’ to be with his wife and young daughter over the festive period.

He’ll be back in England at the start of January to resume pre-season training with the rest of the squad – hopefully with the rest of his family, if their visa application comes through in time – and admits he’s looking forward to getting back down to business as the Giants begin the countdown to their top-flight opener at Wigan Warriors on Sunday, February 5.

“My first month at the Giants has exceeded all expectations,” said the 27-year-old Papua New Guinea international. “I knew I was joining a very professional club, with quality coaches and a top squad, but it’s been even better than I ever thought it would.

“From day one, the boys welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home, while I’ve learned an incredible amount off the coaches.

“The club has also helped get me fixed up with a house in Mirfield, as well as sort out a car and things like that.

“As a result, everything is in place for when the rest of my family arrive, and hopefully they’ll be coming back from Australia with me straight after Christmas. I’ve heard the visas should be processed any day now and having them here would be the icing on the cake.

“Although my initial time at the Giants has been fantastic, the fact my wife and daughter haven’t been here has made it a bit tougher.

“That’s going to make this Christmas all the more exciting, although I also can’t wait to get back to pre-season training here, because I’ve loved every minute of the work we’re doing.”