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The 28-year-old former Man of Steel was the toast of social media last week after his instinctive kick-and-run try helped wrap up his side's crushing 38-0 play-off win over neighbours Leigh.

Former Man of Steel Bevan French has credited his upbringing for his instinctive style of play as he prepares for Saturday’s Betfred Super League Grand Final with Wigan Warriors against Hull KR at Old Trafford.

The 28-year-old full-back produced a trademark kick-and-run try to help wrap up Wigan’s crushing 38-0 play-off win over neighbours Leigh last week.

And French, who is the latest in a celebrated line of indigenous players from the region around Tingha to make a name for themselves in professional rugby league, says he is grateful to be playing in a team that still allows him to express himself in that manner.

“I grew up in a very rural part of Australia where the nearest NRL club was five hours’ drive away and we didn’t know anything about game plans or tactics or training,” French told the PA news agency.

“Your team-mate would take a run and try to score and then it would be your turn. I played that way until I was 18 and when I first came onto the scene in the NRL I was a long way behind everyone else in terms of awareness.

“But I'm grateful to be in a squad that still allows me to express myself in that manner.

“It's important to know that the team has got my back, there is that trust and connection between us and I can do whatever is needed to get on with the job.

“I don't take any notice of social media but I'm aware the world is turning with highlight reels and if mine helps one young person pick the up ball and decide they want to play, that's great.

“I was fortunate to be brought up in a place where I could play with so much freedom.

“It's about finding the balance on a professional level between the strength and tactical side and being able to express yourself and play with a smile on your face.”

French is set to line up against Rovers half-back Mikey Lewis in the Grand Final, having missed out on the chance to retain his Man of Steel Crown after suffering a hamstring injury.

But the Australian is determined to draw positives from another successful campaign.

“During those two weeks out I had the time to get my body right and try to be ready for the back end of the season,” French added.

“When you're getting older you can benefit from these extended periods of time.

“It's also nice when you're out to watch young players come in and change the trajectory of their lives and this season it has been great to see how team-mates like Jack Farrimond and Junior Nsemba have continued to develop.