Catalans Dragons’ Sam Tomkins has been named the 2021 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel.

Tomkins, who was also named in the Betfred Super League Dream Team, fought off strong competition from the four other contenders; Jordan Abdull (Hull KR), Jake Connor (Hull FC), Jonny Lomax (St Helens) and Gareth Widdop (Warrington Wolves) to be crowned the Man of Steel for the second time in his career, with the first coming in 2012.

This weekend, Tomkins and his Dragons teammates will head to Old Trafford to face St Helens with the hope of capping off a fantastic season by winning the Betfred Super League Grand Final for the first time in the club’s history (Saturday 9 October, 6pm KO).

On claiming the Man of Steel Award, Sam Tomkins said: “It is a huge honour to receive the Man of Steel Award. It comes off the back of some great team performances, and I feel lucky to be playing in a great team at Catalans.”

On winning the award for a second time, Tomkins added: “It was a long time ago when I won it for the first time. Someone showed me some pictures from the time, I was just a young kid enjoying playing rugby.

“I’m at a very different stage of my life now. It means a little bit more to me as I know I’ve not got another 10 years of playing the sport.”

Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel Chairman Ellery Hanley MBE said: “Sometimes in your life you have to tip your hat and give full praise and credit to an individual.

“Sam Tomkins has been head and shoulders above everyone in the Steve Prescott Man of Steel points this season.

“Watching his performances this season, he has established himself not only as a marvellous rugby league player, but a fabulous leader of men.

“He has illustrated all season the values and qualities you want all of your players to demonstrate in every game they participate in.

“Look deeper into Sam’s game and you will see what he has done to the rest of his team individually and collectively, in bringing the best out of the Catalans Dragons squad.

“Sam has had a brilliant, majestic and a wonderful season in all facets of the game.”