Man of Steel Award should go to Luke Gale, says fellow nominee and Castleford team-mate Zak Hardaker
Tuesday 3 October 2017 12:29, UK
Luke Gale deserves to be named Man of Steel, according to his Castleford team-mate and rival for the prestigious award, Zak Hardaker.
The Tigers and England scrum-half is vying with Hardaker and Hull stand-off Albert Kelly for the Steve Prescott Award, which will be presented on Tuesday night at the annual Man of Steel dinner in Manchester.
Hardaker, who will face former club Leeds in Saturday's Betfred Super League Grand Final - live on Sky Sports - is in the running to win the award for the second time after picking up the accolade in 2015.
The 25-year-old has been nominated after rediscovering his best form this year but he believes Gale would be a more worthy recipient after breaking the club record for points in a season.
Gale recently missed a fortnight of the season after being diagnosed with appendicitis but he returned on Thursday to slot the winning drop-goal in extra-time that secured a thrilling 23-22 Super 8s victory over St Helens to seal their place at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Live Super League Grand Final
"I've not really thought about it," Hardaker said of the Man of Steel nomination. "I've been mentally drained since Thursday.
"It would be outstanding, I just feel Luke Gale is the Man of Steel this year, that's my personal point of view.
"The appendix story added a bit more to it but he's been tremendous, probably our most influential player. I feel he deserves it."
Gale has already been named the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters' Association player of the year but is not taking anything for granted.
"I'm honoured just to make the shortlist," he said. "It's something I've not really thought about.
"If I win, then fantastic. If Zak wins, then I'll be the first to shake his hand."
Watch the Grand Final between Castleford Tigers and Leeds Rhinos on Saturday. Coverage begins on Sky Sports Arena at 5pm and on Sky Sports Main Event from 6pm.
