Man of Steel Contenders: Jordan Abdull

Jordan Abdull’s rise in 2021 is nothing short of exceptional. In 2019, he was part of a London Broncos side that were agonisingly relegated in the final round of the season. And last year, he finished bottom of Betfred Super League after a frustrating season with the Robins.

Now, he finds himself in the running for the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award and 80 minutes away from a maiden trip to Old Trafford.

One player certainly doesn’t make a team. The Robins have had several standout performers in Super League this season, but Adbull’s influence has been tenfold.

In Hull KR’s opening five wins this year, Abdull earned top Man of Steel points in every single match. His fingerprints have been all over the Robins resurgence in 2021.

Playing for the Robins under head coach Tony Smith is a half backs dream. An attacking ethos runs through the side that allows Abull to express himself with ball in hand.

Abdull described the environment at Hull KR as being like his amateur rugby league days, without a worry or care, where you can go out and enjoy yourself. And boy does it show.

Abdull! 🔥 The Robins lead against the run of the play 💪

Live on Sky Sports Arena NOW ??#SuperLeague #SLWarHKR pic.twitter.com/kU8EqzRSJr
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) September 24, 2021

He leads the way for assists and attacking kicks at Hull KR and is often the orchestrator in their attack, linking up seamlessly with his potent left edge and steering the Robins around the park.

There has never been any doubt about Abdull’s talent. But now, he is performing consistently well. Something that his head coach, Tony Smith, has been quick to praise.

“This has been coming for him. He’s had some really strong performances over the years but it’s coming together more regularly.

“That’s what Man of Steel is about; about consistency and doing it week in week out. He’s getting more confidence about himself and more wisdom as he matures.??

Abdull certainly hasn’t had it all his own way this season. He suffered a fractured thumb in Round 17 and missed six games - returning for the Robins ahead of their crunch tie against Castleford Tigers just over two weeks ago. It was a return that helped Hull KR secure a milestone win in their pursuit of a top six birth.

As good as Abdull has been in 2021, he will only get better. He is maturing into an astute half back who oozes with confidence and backs it up with his accomplished performances.

Playing in a flamboyant Robins side, he has all the tools to become one of the best halves in Betfred Super League. His performance against the Wolves in last Friday's Play-off eliminator certainly reinforces that.

Now, with the Robins just one win away from a trip to Old Trafford, anything is possible. And a Man of Steel award for Abdull would cap off what has been a fairy tale season.