Manchester: New Zealand superstar Joey Manu declared his best is yet to come after winning the Golden Boot at the World Cup.
Manu took home the award – given to the international player of the year – ahead of fellow nominees Josh Addo-Carr, Jarome Luai, George Williams and Tom Burgess.
The Roosters centre has dominated playing fullback at the World Cup and was arguably the best player on the field in New Zealand’s semi-final loss to Australia.
“I’ve definitely enjoyed (playing fullback), it was nice to play back-to-back weeks in the position, at club land I’ve been in and out,” Manu said.
Watch Australia v Samoa in the Rugby League World Cup Final this Sunday LIVE & Exclusive to Fox Sports, on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
Radley altercation under investigation | 02:10
MORE WORLD CUP NEWS
WC FINAL: Inside the rise of a sleeping rugby league giant after an angry declaration
TRANSFER WHISPERS: Raiders set to make double play for Titans’ $1.25m man
RADLEY: England enforcer faces sanction as NRL investigate alleged headbutt
“I’m not sure about what position I’ll play (in the NRL) in the future. Wherever I am on the field I’m happy, I just love playing anywhere, it’s just my own style that I enjoy playing.
“Pretty sure I’ll be back in the centres next year and that’ll be good too. Teddy has nothing to worry about, he’s the man.”
Manu is in the form of his career but the 26-year-old said his best is yet to come, in an ominous warning for his NRL and international rivals.
“Especially in that role (fullback). I enjoyed playing fullback but when I was playing there I definitely could have improved on a lot of things,” Manu said.
“Sliding into that position I think I can be better, there’s always room for improvement as a player and as a person.
“I’m always trying to improve what I do and I enjoy trying to be the best player and person I can be.”
Manu is backing Samoa in the final, with the Pacific Islanders to meet Australia in a David v Goliath battle at Old Trafford on Sunday AEDT.
“You see how proud their people are – I’m Pacific Island and Māori,” Manun said.
“If they do win it’ll be crazy because of what we’ve already seen after them making the final. I’ll be wishing them all the best.
“I wish it was us there and I’m not too fussed who wins but it would pretty cool to see Samoa win.”
Fellowe New Zealander Raecene McGregor took out the women’s Golden Boot, while Sebastien Bechara claimed the wheelchair honour.
