Lunt and Faiumu out for Giants

James Gordon

Huddersfield will be without forwards David Faiumu and Shaun Lunt for their clash against Crusaders at The Shay on Sunday.

Faiumu is missing with a rib injury while Lunt has a groin problem that could force a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Coach Nathan Brown is, however, boosted by the return of Australian international back-rower Luke O’Donnell after a seven game absence.

Brown said: “Luke O’Donnell could have played at a push last week, we just gave him another week off to be safe and he’s definitely going to be fit to come in.  Shaun Lunt has been struggling for a while with groin trouble, so we’re not sure how long he’s going to be out for.  Fuey (David Faiumu) has got rib trouble and he’s going to be out for a period as he’s been carrying it for a while. 

“Some blokes unfortunately have been going on the injured list for a period of time now and the good thing is Luke’s back, so we’ve got some players sitting there waiting for an opportunity.”

If O’Donnell plays, it will be his 200th career appearance, while team-mates Danny Kirmond and Lee Gilmour are both in line to make their 50th appearances for the Giants.