Leeds Rhinos' Zak Hardaker surprised by Man of Steel award

Newly-crowned Super League Man of Steel Zak Hardaker says he never expected to win the award, which he thought would go to Alex Walmsley or Adam Cuthbertson.

The full-back, who can also slot in at centre or on the wing, has reaped the rewards of a successful season with Leeds Rhinos and was presented with the award at Monday night's ceremony in Manchester.

Hardaker will look to cap a glorious year with a Grand Final winners' medal when Leeds take on Wigan Warriors at Old Trafford on Saturday, but the 23-year-old insists he thought either St Helens prop Walmsley or Rhinos team-mate Cuthbertson would scoop the award.

"I'm pretty speechless, I'm overwhelmed with the accolade," he said.

"I didn't expect it. I was really happy and made up that I got the nomination and to go an extra step and get this award is something else.

"I'll be pinching myself when I get home. Honestly, I thought it was between Alex Walmsley and Adam Cuthbertson, who have been tremendous all year.

"Cuthbo has come in from Australia and given a whole new meaning to prop forward play with the offloading game he has brought.

"Saints have done tremendously well all year, sometimes off the sole work of Alex Walmsley. So I was pretty shocked with it."

Live Super League Grand Final

However, Hardaker feels he is in the form of his career.

"This is my best year up to date," he added.

"I've improved year on year with Leeds and hopefully I can do that again next year because that would be tremendous. But it's the team that has enabled me to play that much better."

Watch the 2015 Super League Grand Final on Saturday. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 1 HD at 5pm.