Even though the faithful in the BOP Mafia have been saying it for years, Sir Glen's talent is only now being recognised.

Saracens fly-half Glen Jackson has been named the Professional Rugby Players' Association Player of the Year.

The 31-year-old was a surprise winner of the award, topping the poll ahead of Bristol number eight Dan Ward-Smith and Leicester winger Alesana Tuilagi.

Jackson is the leading points scorer in the Guinness Premiership and helped Sarries qualify for the semi-final against Gloucester this weekend.

"I was very shocked when I heard the news and couldn't quite believe it to be honest," Jackson said after collecting the award at a gala ceremony in London on Wednesday evening.

"It is a real honour to be voted by your peers. It is the greatest achievement of my rugby career to win this award and a very proud moment.

"My thanks have to go to my team mates at Saracens for the support I have received this season."

The Mafia is happy to overlook Glen's enthusiasm in declaring this as his greatest achievement - we all know that was winning the Ranfurly Shield - as merely telling the English press what they wanted to hear. Everything is going according to the Mafia master plan, back to the Bay in 2009, All Black captain for the 2011 World Cup.