Penrith’s superstar halfback Nathan Cleary has heaped praise on his opposing playmaker Jahrome Hughes ahead of their duel on Sunday night in the grand final.

Cleary, who missed parts of the season through injury, has backed Hughes to win the Dally M Medal.

“He’s been a pleasure to watch all year… he’s been on fire,” Cleary said.

“He’s been the best player this year for sure.

“He’s definitely the best running halfback I’ve just about ever seen.

“The way he takes on the line, he’s constantly a threat.

“I think he’s added a lot of other stuff to his game as well just in terms of game management and ball playing.”