The St Helens favourite modestly played down his selection in the team of the year at the inaugural International Federation awards in Brisbane this week, insisting the vote should have gone to either Price or fellow Kangaroo front rower Petero Civoniceva.

But Price, speaking at visit to a storm-ravaged school on the outskirts of Brisbane, insisted the award was fully deserved.

''It's very nice of him to say that but I think he fully deserves it and I think he should have been one of the nominations for the international player of the year,'' said the New Zealand Warrior.

''I didn't know a lot about James before this tournament. I heard he had a good year in England and for him to get Man of Steel in front of so many great players that are in the Super League is a true testament to start with, especially to do it as a front rower.

''I was totally impressed by playing against him and watching him play over here in the World Cup. I think he's just being a very humble young man.''