JAMIE SIMPSON is hoping his extra fitness will ensure he features for the Giants between now and the end of the season.
The 24-year-old Australian played his first game in four months in the Super League clash at Salford 10 days ago after recovering from major shoulder surgery.
It was the former South Sydney utility man’s first run-out since picking up his injury in the clash against Catalan Dragons in Perpignan in April.
But having spent time working on his overall fitness as part of his shoulder rehabilitation programme, Simpson believes he’s in the best shape since he arrived at the Giants in February.
And he hopes that will start to be reflected in his future Huddersfield performances.
“Getting back out there against Salford the other week was a long time coming. It was about 17 weeks,” he said.
“But it felt great, even though the result was obviously so bitterly disappointing.
“I have to admit the shoulder was pretty sore, which is what you always expect when you’re playing your first game back after surgery.
“But I came through the game relatively unscathed, and that’s given me a fair bit of confidence.
“On top of that, I also felt good generally in terms of my level of fitness.
“I admit I wasn’t in the peak of fitness when I arrived at the Giants earlier in the year, which meant I was having to play catch-up a bit.
“But I’ve now had time to work on that and I feel in pretty good shape. My fitness is now the best it’s been since I got here.
“I just hope that’s going to be enough to help me contribute more to the side and keep me involved for the rest of the season.”
Simpson’s first task is to try and retain his place in the side that faces Harlequins at the Galpharm Stadium on Sunday.
And he is hoping his versatility counts in his favour when head coach Nathan Brown makes his final selection call.
“We’ve got quite a few of the boys ready to come back, and no-one obviously wants to lose their place,” he added.
“I felt comfortable at hooker at Salford the other week, although wing/centre is probably where I’m most at home.
“But as I’ve also played in the Australian NRL in the halves, I’ll play there too if needed.
“I just hope that means Browny feels I’m someone who can do a job for him for the rest of the year.
“We know we’re about to play some vitally important games, and everyone is really keen to be involved.”
After next weekend’s clash at home to the Quins, the Giants end their regular Super League season with another home game against Leeds Rhinos the following Sunday.
Huddersfield may need to win both matches to guarantee a crucial top-four finish and two bites of the cherry to reach the Grand Final.
As a result, the Giants are hoping for big backing at both encounters, with the club having just put tickets on sale for the games offering discounted prices if they are purchased ahead of the games.
They are £3 cheaper when purchased before matchday and with under 12s free of charge, a family of four can watch from as little as £36.
Supporters are also reminded that current season-ticket holders have until 5pm this Wednesday (August 31) to renew their reserved seat.
The headline packages for 2012 enable adults in the Direct Golf and Britannia Rescue stands to enjoy every Giants home game throughout the regular Super League season for just £99.
Also the first 2000 fans signing up for the Fantastic Media Stand can watch all 13 home league games for just £50.
Under 12 season tickets remain free of charge, while junior 12 to 16-year-olds tickets are just £35.
These prices will only be available until Monday, September 12, and supporters can book their place for 2012 by visiting the Galpharm Stadium Ticket Office which is open Monday- Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12 midday.
The Ticket Hotline is 01484 484123 and supporters can also buy online.
