TOUGH Giants forward Paul Smith is recovering after successful surgery on a broken nose.
Huddersfield's next Super League outing, at London Broncos tomorrow week, will probably come too soon for the former Rochdale Hornets man.
But the 24-year-old winter recruit, who is relishing his chance in the top flight, has the home meeting with Wakefield Trinity Wildcats seven days later firmly in his sights.
Back rower Smith suffered the injury in an accidental clash with his own teammate Chris Nero during the 26-20 win at Warrington Wolves.
Nero came out of the collision unscathed and scored a try in the match a fortnight ago.
Doctors had to allow the swelling to subside before operating.
Smith, who has figured in nine of the Giants' 13 games so far, is wearing a protective shield over his nose, but can take part in non-contact training.
"Players sometimes play with broken noses, but this was a nasty injury and we thought it wise to get it fixed properly," explained football manager Stuart Sheard.
"The blank weekend provided a good opportunity to get it done without missing too many games, and hopefully, Paul will be back in full training by the end of next week."
Giants hooker Darren Turner is recovering well after his minor knee operation and could be in line for the London showdown.
Versatile Brandon Costin is confident he will have shaken off a hamstring strain in time for the clash.
