3. Facundo Isa – Argentina
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The decision of Isa to sign a big-money deal with French powerhouses Toulon is a massive blow to the Pumas, who have a policy of only picking home-based players for Test rugby (apart from World Cups). Crashes over the gainline and hits hard, Champions Cup opponents will be on alert.
His 66 carries throughout the November internationals last year was more than any of his rival nominees, but he is yet to properly establish himself consistently on the world stage.
However, as the youngest player on this shortlist, watch this space.