Andrew Fifita has paid tribute to ex-Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan, giving his banned former mentor his 2018 Dally M prop of the year trophy.

Flanagan on Friday took to Instagram to show off the gesture from the NSW and Tongan representative star.

On the back of the trophy was the inscription: “To Flanno. Thank you for bringing the best out in me on and off the field. Your patience and support will never be forgotten.”

Fifita said he was happy to give the trophy to Flanagan – who has been deregistered for communicating with club officials during his 2014 ban – because he already has a trophy at home for the same award which he won in 2013.

Last year Fifita infamously pointed at the Sharks coach’s box and let fly with an expletive-laden spray which appeared to be directed at Flanagan during a win over North Queensland.

However Fifita said he remained close to his former coach.

“I’m just grateful for what he’s done over my career,” Fifita told AAP.

“It was something that means a lot to me and it means a lot to Flanno.

“A Dally M is one of the biggest prizes you can get in rugby league.

“I knew it was something I had to give. I’m quite happy about it and he’ll always be a mate to me and I’ll go to him for advice.”

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg has hinted Flanagan is set for a long spell out of rugby league.

And Fifita sidestepped questions about whether Flanagan deserves to be welcomed back, but did say mentors and leaders like him were vital to the game

“We all need coaches like that, you have to find that connection,” Fifita said.

“I’ve got that connection with Johnny Morris at the moment, I played with him and we’ve got that mutual respect.”