Gaskell happy to be back in the top flight

am a local lad and know a lot of people at the club and about town,” said Gaskell.

“My little lad supports Saints, and Huddersfield as well with me being here, but it is a nice occasion when you go back to your hometown club.”

However, his focus is firmly on putting the Giants Super League campaign back on track after defeats at the hands of West Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers – the most recent setback being a humbling 52-16 defeat at The Jungle.

Gaskell slotted in at half back and produced another strong performance in the Claret and Gold but he emphasised that the team comes first.

“Obviously the outcome against Castleford was disappointing and, whatever is happening for me from a personal point of view, it is the outcome for the team that matters,” said Gaskell.

“For us now it is a case of sticking together, staying strong mentally and working hard.

“We know Saints is going to be a tough game, but there is no reason why we cannot go there and pout on a performance that can get us the win.”

An ability to play at full back, in the three-quarters or, primarily, in the half backs, has made Gaskell a very useful capture for Giants head coach Rick Stone, and Gaskell is more than happy as it gives him a chance to show his abilities in the top flight.

“When I first came to the Giants I just wanted to ensure I was in the starting 13, or at least the squad of 17,” he said.

“I have no worries about what position I play and I just want to be in the squad or the side and help out.

“I am happy to be back in Super League, so playing at full back or wherever is not a problem.

“But the past few weeks I have been at half back and that is where I have played for most of my career.