MELBOURNE Storm and Fijian flyer Suliasi Vunivalu is a surprise contender to be named the world’s best rugby league player.

Vunivalu has been named as one of four nominees for the 2017 Golden Boot award, along with his Storm skipper, and Australian captain, Cameron Smith.

Joining him on the shortlist is Cowboys and Tonga wrecking ball Jason Taumalolo, and England speedster Jermaine McGillvary.

Smith claimed the award in 2007, and could join Andrew Johns, Darren Lockyer and Johnathan Thurston as a two-time winner..