Cuthbertson: Man of Steel would be huge honour

Leeds Rhinos prop Adam Cuthbertson has enjoyed a remarkable first season in England – and after winning two trophies already with the Rhinos in 2015, Cuthbertson stands just a few days away from potentially winning the biggest individual honour in the British game, too.

Cuthbertson has been named alongside Zak Hardaker and Alex Walmsley for the prestigious Steve Prescott Man of Steel award, which will be handed out on Monday night at an event in Manchester.

And the Leeds prop – who was named in the Super League Dream Team this past week – admits it would be a great honour to join the small clutch of Australians who’ve won the award.

“It would just be a humongous honour to win it,” he said ahead of tonight’s semi-final with St Helens.

“You don’t play the game for self-accolades but at the end of the day, it just highlights all the extra work you put in; as a kid growing up and then as a professional after training when everyone goes home.

“The sacrifices you make is the reason accolades like this are so amazing, and also what it means to be a part of it all as it’s driven by the players too.”

Cuthbertson also believes Leeds teammate Jamie Peacock – who was also in the Dream Team in the prop position alongside Alex Walmsley – would have been a great shout for the award in 2015, too.

“They’re both two outstanding players who have been in some top form this year – it’s unbelievable to be named alongside those two (in the Dream Team), to be honest.

“I think JP was very unlucky not to be in the Man of Steel (reckoning) as well. He’s been outstanding this year, but it’s great to be named in this team with him.”

Cuthbertson also has his eyes on the treble with the Rhinos, and he will reach the Grand Final in his first year in England if they beat St Helens tonight. He described playing for Leeds as a “pleasure”.

“Yeah it’s worked out very nicely this year so far,” he said.

“It’s just been a pleasure to play for Leeds Rhinos. We’ve had some great form during the year so far, and managed to pick up the Challenge Cup and League Leaders’ Shield, so it’s just been an outstanding year.

“It’s a very exciting time for the group, especially after last weekend and getting a bit of form back into the team. We’ve got players back to full health too, and we’re coming up against a great team like St Helens for a place at Old Trafford.

“It’ll be a tough game, so we’re grateful we’ve got it at home at Headingley – and it should make for a classic.”