ROBBIE PAUL has put his future playing plans on hold to concentrate on helping the Giants reach the Super League play-offs for the first time.

The 31-year-old New Zealand half-back’s current contract expires at the end of the season.

Paul has thoroughly enjoyed his two years at the Galpharm and has hinted several times he would like to prolong his stay.

But he believes now is not the time to focus on next season when there is still so much at stake in Super League XII.

“Huddersfield Giants are about to face the six most important games of the year,’’ said Paul, whose side return to action with the home clash against Challenge Cup finalists Catalans Dragons on Sunday.

“We’re still right in the play-off mix and we genuinely believe we can make the top six for the first time.

“Obviously, that’s not going to be easy, because the competition this year is the most intense it has ever been.

“This is the time when everyone has to focus 100% and make sure they are right at the top of their game.

“This is not the time for distractions, and obviously those include negotiations over a new contract.

“Certain things are moving along at the moment, but this is hardly the time for the major decision-making processes to take place.

“What matters to me more than anything at this very moment is playing well to help the Giants make it into the six.

“I know that if I can do that, the other business will take care of itself.

“I would be absolutely gutted if we failed to reach the play-offs, because some of the stuff we have played this year has been fantastic.

“Our confidence has been boosted by the way we have played to win at Wakefield and Harlequins in our last two games.

“And we’re looking forward to hosting Catalans on Sunday.

“I can’t afford to focus on anything else but this.’’