POPULAR Giants full-back Paul Reilly is ready to sacrifice a place in England's European Nations squad to concentrate on getting himself fully fit for Super League XI.
The 29-year-old starred for England in the European Cup competition last season and was man-of-the-match in their final triumph over Ireland.
But those highly demanding international commitments meant Reilly has not had a break for over 18 months and he admits it has taken its toll.
"The second half of this year has been a real struggle, and I've obviously had to miss more games than I would have liked because of the number of knocks I've been carrying," said Reilly.
"I don't want a repeat of that next season.
"I was absolutely delighted when I got my letter telling me I was in the England squad again.
"But the more I thought about it, the more I knew the timing wasn't right.
"I really need a big season next season, and the only way to guarantee that is to get my injuries treated, to rest up and come back for pre-season refreshed.
"It's my testimonial season next year, and I definitely want to make a big impact then.
"But my current contract is also up next season, and I know I'll need to do well on a consistent basis to earn a new deal."
Reilly is just one of many Giants players who finished the campaign carrying knocks.
Jim Gannon (knee) and Marcus St Hilaire (ribs) were ruled out of the last game of the season at home to Wigan on Sunday, while a number of others went into the contest, which the Giants lost 36-22, with niggling injuries.
