Radlinski, he was the ultimate last line of defense and great in attack. I think the fact he never turned his back on the club or frequently criticized the sport also sways my opinion.

I posted in a topic the other week, the first thing a fullback should be able to do is defend, and I have never seen anyone better than Rads.

In terms of attacking talent there is only one winner. Tomkins is arguably the most talented player we have had at the club since Ellery Hanley.

By Radders own admission in his book he stated he knew he wasnt the most talented of players but hard graft and total committment got him to where he wanted to be.
For last line of defence then Rads nails it.

Overall if I had to choose either as full back in my all time Wigan XIII then I would have to say Tomkins (very difficult to ignore the attacking performances over the last five years).

Both considered Wigan RL legends (of which we have many).

sam by a long chalk.

radders never had the ability to change a game on his own. he was excellent at coming into the line but had no ability to create for others.

defensively in the WC Sam was excellent. he was a s secure as any other FB in the tournament and this was real testament to the hard work he has put in.

Radders had a great career, but he has never the best player in SL. Sam, even for one so young, has been the best player in SL for 3 seasons.

Rads for me great defender safe under the high ball and not too shabby in attack

Steve Hampson

Rads, no doubt about it.

Very difficult decision, with both players at their peak I'd say Sam purely because for a good while teams just didn't know how to defend against him, but I will say that if Sam had stayed in SL for much longer I'm not sure he would have been as effective, whereas Radlinski maintained high standards for over a decade because his strengths weren't really things teams could combat.

Hampo, Rads then Sam for me

Rampo was great with the high ball, the best I have ever seen.
Rads was better than Hampo in that he had pace to get him into the right positions.
Sam is better than Rads, his running, passing and evasive qualities edge it for me.

Radlinski for me. I couldn't see Tomkins playing for no fees.