
Wigan coach Shaun Wane thinks it is “pretty strange” not to have a Warriors player on the Man of Steel shortlist and believes Matty Smith was more than deserving of such recognition.
Super League revealed the four candidates for its prestigious award – Jamie Peacock (Leeds Rhinos), James Roby (St Helens), Daryl Clark (Castleford Tigers) and Chris Hill (Warrington Wolves) – last week.
“I thought Matty would have had a chance with what he has done when (half-back partner) Blake Green has been out,” Wane said.
“He’s led the team really well. He was already high in my estimation and he’s gone even higher this year.
“I’m gutted for him. The four who have been picked are quality players but to not have anybody from the Wigan team is pretty strange.”