GIANTS defenders Nick Haynes and Joel Patfull have both suffered minor set-backs in the lead up to the 2016 season.

Haynes, who was carefully managed with groin soreness last season, had surgery and will resume training early in the new year.

Meanwhile Patfull flagged foot soreness this week and a subsequent scan revealed bone bruising to his heel.

The veteran will wear a boot and use crutches for the next fortnight in order to minimise impact and pressure on the foot.

The duo are both set to resume modified training in January.

GIANTS Head of Athletic Performance David Joyce said neither injury should compromise the availability of the pair before the opening game of the 2016 premiership season.

“We gave Nick Haynes every opportunity to rest his groin over the break but unfortunately he just couldn’t get it 100 per cent right so a decision was made to put him in for surgery,” Joyce said.

“Everything went well and we expect him to be running in the new year.

“Joel Patfull complained of heel soreness and he’s been instructed to rest up until training resumes in January."

The rest of the playing group continue their pre-season training camp on the Sunshine Coast this week before going on Christmas break for a fortnight.