It’s great to see Sean O’Loughlin, one of the modern-day great players, get recognised with an OBE.
In rugby league, we always have a chip on our shoulders - rightly or wrongly - about recognition from outside the sport. This recognition is thoroughly deserved. Lockers is joining a growing band of former players under the age of 50 who’ve managed to earn the recognition of the Royal Family with such an honour. I played with him, for England and Great Britain, and against him in Super League.
Lockers had the skills and vision of a half-back and the toughness and engine of a front-rower. Few players have that combination. He was worth so much to Wigan; if Lockers played, I always felt he was worth six to 12 points for them.
