Williams: O'Driscoll worthy successor
'Standout nominee': Brian O'Driscoll. Photo: Getty Images
Friday November 20 2009
Wales winger Shane Williams believes Brian O'Driscoll should succeed him as International Rugby Board player of the year.
Competition for the award is provided by Ireland number eight Jamie Heaslip, England flanker Tom Croft, New Zealand openside Richie McCaw, Australia fly-half Matt Giteau and South Africa duo Francois Steyn and Fourie du Preez.
But Williams believes his Lions team-mate O'Driscoll is the standout nominee, saying: "I've seen the shortlist, there are some great names on it. I'm sure with everything he has achieved this year, it may go to Brian. It would be nice. He's a good friend of mine, and he certainly deserves it."
Williams added: "With winning the Grand Slam (Ireland) and the Heineken Cup (Leinster) and having a great Lions tour, and scoring on the weekend against Australia, he's back to his best, really.
"He has worked hard to get there and he would deserve the accolade."
Press Association
