SAINTS boss Royce Simmons believes James Roby is up there with the best number nines in the world.

He added that the leadership roles he has been given have made him even better – but expressed surprise that his consistently top-drawer performances do not earn weekly plaudits.

Simmons said: “One guy that hasn't had the plaudits since about the first ten weeks is James Roby. He sets the bar so high that perhaps people look over the top of him. If he hasn't run 180 plus metres and done 40/50 tackles tonight then I would be surprised.”

80-minute man Roby has been ever present this year – despite fracturing his eye socket last month. And is surely a prime candidate for regaining the Man of Steel he last won in 2007.

Roby’s displays have even surprised his boss Simmons, who said: “I didn't know he was this good before I came in - I didn't know how someone could be so fit, he does not knock up. The thing that everyone forgets is his defence is superb. He sits you on your tail and puts in massive hits.

“He is very close to the complete player and has added a kicking game to that too, with two or three 40/20s this year. He is right up there with the Cameron Smiths and Robbie Farahs. This year he has been given some leadership roles and jobs to do and it has made him a better player.”

“You'll see that in his rep football this year – he will lead more and bring forwards on to the ball. He is more of a leader now, learnt off the best in Keiron.

“He will have watched Keiron play and then played with him, you learn off the best and now he is the best in his time.”

When asked about possible captaincy for next term, Simmons confirmed that Paul Wellens will continue in the role he has carried out jointly this term with NRL-bound James Graham.

“Paul Wellens is doing a super job and will be captain next year – but Robes will certainly be my back up man.”