Coach Simon Woolford says the ex-Raiders playmaker, who was a key figure in the side's march the NRL grand final last year, was the obvious choice to take over the captaincy.

The 28-year-old joined the Giants on a two-year deal where he became the club's first marquee signing.

Sezer takes over the captaincy from former England centre Leroy Cudjoe, who steps down after two injury-hit seasons in which he made just 11 appearances.

Woolford said: "It was an obvious choice. Last year with Leroy being on the sidelines, we went with a leadership group.

"This year we feel we have a stand-out candidate in Aiden. He has come over here to lead the team and in the first six weeks he's gained the respect of the guys.

"Leroy needs to concentrate on getting to playing footy, he doesn't need to worry about the captaincy. I had a good chat with Leroy and he supports the decision."

Sezer, who will make his first appearance for the Giants against Halifax in the Jermaine McGillvary testimonial match at the John Smith's Stadium on Sunday, says he will relish the role.

"It was a little bit of a surprise but it comes with the territory," Sezer said at Huddersfield's pre-season sponsors lunch.

"Being a half-back, you relish the responsibility and being captain is going to instil a lot of belief and confidence in my game."

Australian Associated Press