Over the years, this position has had to see such players adapt and improve in defence as well as attack, with some becoming an extra forward for their pack.
We chose five wing three-quarters who should play an important part in 2019.
5) Bureta Faraimo
Hull’s Bureta Faraimo is first up at number five. Faraimo had shoes to fill when he replaced Mahe Fonua but scoring 17 tries last season saw him do just that.
His sheer power with ball in hand saw him cause torment for all opposition in 2018 alone.
His defence and discipline can be called in to question but should he improve there then he should have a real stab at bettering Fonua’s achievements with the Airlie Birds.
4) Akuila Uate
Next up is Huddersfield’s latest signing in Akuila Uate.
The 31-year-old is arguably the Giants’ top signing, having spent 11 seasons in the NRL and managing over 20 international appearances between Australia and Fiji, scoring over 140 tries.
His speed, skill and support play therefore cannot be questioned and he should be another hot prospect for the Giants heading in to the 2019 season!
3) Jermaine McGillvary
England international Jermaine McGillvary is up next. McGillvary has become Huddersfield’s seventh forward in recent years, especially in attack.
Having scored 11 tries last season as well as topping their amount of metres with over 1700, he is arguably their most consistent performer.
No doubt more to follow next season as he will aim to help the Giants become title contenders once again.
2) Tom Johnstone
Runner-up is Wakefield flyer Tom Johnstone. He could have had better luck with injuries but has been outstanding for Trinity since coming through their ranks.
Having successfully utilised his speed to great effect and ‘wowing’ the supporters with his spectacular finishing ability has earned him a regular place in the team and even international recognition with his prowess.
All those reasons make him another one to watch in 2019, as he will be knocking on the door of personal honours once again.
1) Tom Makinson
Who else really?! The current Golden Boot winner Tom Makinson is ranked number one!
Makinson had an unbelievable 2018 season, scoring 11 tries and racking up over 2200 metres for St Helens and for good measure.
He was also key in England’s Test Series win over New Zealand, scoring four tries in total, including the hat-trick at Anfield.
His skill with ball in hand, such as his side-stepping, fending and ability to finish has arguably made him the competition’s top winger and no doubt there will be more of the same in 2019, regardless of the opposing voices of those down under!