Springbok fullback Johan Goosen has been named as the best player in the Top 14 for the 2015-16 season in an award nominated by his peers.

Despite featuring in just four of the Boks' six Rugby Championship Tests, Goosen was South Africa's joint-top try-scorer (2) and made the most metres (226) for his team. The versatile back was a key performer as Racing 92 went on to win the Top 14 last season.

At an annual French rugby prize-giving ceremony on Monday, Goosen received the award ahead of teammate Dan Carter, and Toulon's Josua Tuisova.

'I wasn't expecting it. When I look at the other names … Dan … no need to say anything more,' Goosen commented. 'And as for Josua, he had a great season, so I take this award with great humility.'

Goosen is on the cover of the latest SA Rugby magazine, which went on sale in September.

Photo: Luis Gene/AFP Image