GIANTS coach Jon Sharp believes the arrival of Ryan Hudson will bring the very best out of Brad Drew.
Hudson last week agreed to join Huddersfield when his two-year drug ban ends on January 21.
The 26-year-old, who began his professional career at the Giants, can play at hooker or in the back row.
That means he will be able to provide valuable cover for first-choice No9 Drew if the new Giants' Player of the Year needs to take a mid-match breather.
It was an option lost to Sharp when Paul March suffered a serious mid-season knee injury and was ruled out for the rest of the campaign.
March has, of course, now re-joined Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.
And Sharp will be looking to Hudson to fill the void left by March.
"In his own right, the arrival of Ryan will strengthen the side," said Sharp.
"Before his ban, Ryan was an established England player and member of the Great Brtain squad.
"That shows how good he is, and I know he'll get even better with us.
"But I also know he will help bring the very best out of those around him, and that will include Brad Drew.
"Brad was outstanding for us all season, but there were times when he was forced to work harder than we would have all wished.
"Earlier in the season, we were able to spell Brad, because we had Paul March ready to take up the hooker role from him.
"It meant Brad could give it his best shot early on, take a breather and then return and be equally as effective.
"That option was lost when Marchy was injured, but now it's back with Ryan's arrival."
