Hardaker's passing game is the weakest area of his game, but I don't buy into the argument that he's not that good in attack. In fact, he's one of the best players in broken field, and kick returners in the competition.

No one on here is denying that Hardaker isn't effective and that he hasn't had a good season. But I think the MoS award should go to the best player in the competition.

Now, as a Wigan fan I'm really not that bothered that Roby is overlooked again. But it beggars belief that the players could think Clark was better than him last season and that he isn't even shortlisted this.

Just to prove my even handedness, I'll give you another example when the MoS made no sense. When Pat Richards won it, Lockers and Sam had demonstrably better seasons, Pat kicked the goals and finished the tries, but to suggest he was the best player was nonsense.

I don't really have a problem with Clark winning last year, he had a great season. I'd have had no problem with any of the other 3 nominees winning it either. Actually, I think I only really can remember disagreeing with Farrell winning it in 2004, and Hodgson winning it in 2009.

Who's to say for sure who the best player in the competition is over the course of a season? Clearly some people do think Hardaker has been the best player in SL, but then again, just as many probably don't. These things are subjective.

I'm still confused by James Roby winning it in 2007 when Trent Barrett near enough single handedly carried us all year long.

I'm glad we agree Charlie because you seemed to be suggesting that because the players had chosen Zak there was no room for debate.

Hardaker prevented two nailed on tries again tonight (one in each half)...leeds then win the LLS by virtue of a 4pt win.

The *only* reason you can think Hardaker is overrated is because you don't like him (and/or the team he plays for)

So you actually want England to do badly to proove you're right...wow!

Also haven't two Wigan full backs been man of steel in recent years?

Hardaker's "apologists" will argue that his defence is crucial.....because defence is just as crucial as attack.

Too many RL fans on here don't appreciate defence.

Since 2000 the only Wigan players to win it are Farrell at LF, Richards on the Wing and Tomkins at FB, so...

FWIW I think Hardaker is the leagues best full back, but I also don't think he's up against stiff competition either. Rightly so he's up for Man Of Steel. I'd agree with all the contenders but I'd like it to be expanded to include at least Luke Gale who's been really great this season.

Ah OK, couldn't remember if Richards was on the wing or FB that year...still bit much to suggest (appreciate it wasn't you) Hardaker shouldn't be man of steel because he's a FB when Wigan have had a FB and winger win in recent years

Hate cas but Luke Gale has orchestrated everything they have done this season and also should picked ahead of Smith for England.

Farrell won it at prop in 2004 didn't he?

Gale was good again tonight. He should be in the squad ahead of Smith I agree but at the moment I'd probably edge for Widdop and Tomkins in the halves with Hardaker at fullback.

Williams won YPOTY. Congrats lad.