MATTY Ashton is among the players in contention for one of rugby league’s highest individual honours.

The Warrington Wolves winger has been named on a 20-player long list for International Rugby League’s men’s Golden Boot award, given to the top performing international player of the year.

Ashton is nominated following his displays for England during their series win over Tonga as he scored three tries in his two appearances to help Shaun Wane’s side to a clean sweep of the three-match series.

His England teammates Harry Smith, Mikey Lewis and John Bateman are also on the shortlist, with other Super League representation coming via Leigh Leopards pair Lachlan Lam and Edwin Ipape and Huddersfield Giants man Esan Marsters.

Five recipients of the IRL “Golden Cap” for 50 international appearances will select the winner of the men’s prize, including former Wire skipper Adrian Morley.

Morley’s fellow Englishman James Graham, Australian Darren Lockyer and New Zealand pair Adam Blair and Ruben Wiki will also help decide who takes home the prize.

“The IRL Golden Boot is one of the oldest and most highly regarded awards in rugby league, so it is fitting that some of the giants of the international game decide the winners,” IRL chair Troy Grant said.

“Having former players of such standing choose the men’s and women’s international player of the year adds to the prestige of the IRL Golden Boot and we thank them for their support of the award.

“There has been more international rugby league played in recent months than any other period in recent memory outside of a World Cup year and players have again demonstrated their passion for representing their countries of birth or heritage.”

The winners of the men’s, women’s and wheelchair awards will be announced early next month.