THE Steve Prescott Man of Steel is one of the game’s most prestigious awards, won by some of Super League’s best players.
Wigan Warriors star Bevan French was the 2023 winner, and here are five potential candidates to take his crown in the 2024 season.
Jai Field – Wigan Warriors
Jai Field wasn’t shortlisted for the 2023 award despite the livewire fullback being in incredible form for Wigan last season. Often the difference between the Warriors winning and losing a game, the Australian looks certain to have another big year at the DW Stadium.
Jack Welsby – St Helens
Having narrowly missed out on the award in 2023, Jack Welsby will be back with a bang in 2024 after signing a new deal with St Helens. With the fullback’s future now secured, the England international should kick on for his beloved club next season. Still just 22, Welsby has all the tricks of the trade to scoop up a first Man of Steel.
Brodie Croft – Leeds Rhinos
What a signing this could be for Leeds Rhinos. Brodie Croft shone at Salford Red Devils – where he too won the Man of Steel back in 2022 – but now he has moved on to pastures new at Headingley. He is set to be the focal point of the Rhinos’ attack and could thrive in Rohan Smith’s system and propel the West Yorkshire club back into the play-offs.
Theo Fages – Catalans Dragons
After a number of highly successful years in the UK, Theo Fages is back in his native France with Catalans. Replacing Mitchell Pearce, Fages will have a lot of pressure on his shoulders, but the diminutive halfback knows what that is like following a trophy-laden spell at St Helens. Being back in France could help the 29-year-old find his best form.
Lachlan Lam – Leigh Leopards
It seems surprising that Lachlan Lam wasn’t in the conversation for the Man of Steel in 2023 after helping Leigh win the Challenge Cup for the first time in 52 years. Lam could thrive with NRL veteran Matt Moylan’s arrival allowing the PNG star to play his natural, off-the-cuff game and punish opponents.
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