The Ireland international was on the losing side for Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup final as Stade Rochelais snatched a dramatic victory, but his superb performances this year earned him the individual accolade.

No player made more tackles (25) than van der Flier in the game at Stade Vélodrome, taking his tally to 114 in this season’s competition – more than any other player.

With six tries in eight games, the 28-year-old has also had a significant impact on the front foot for Leinster.

“He’s an incredible character and he’s been outstanding all year,” Cullen said. “Very dedicated in everything that he does. Meticulous in his preparation.

“[He’s a] great model for our younger guys as well, just the way he goes about his week. His mindset is to always improve.

“He had an ACL injury in the [2018] Six Nations campaign. All the work that he would’ve done off the field, talking to different people that have had ACL injuries.

“[Talking to] some of the best back-rowers that he could find out there in the world as well and trying to add bits to his game.

“He’s a great individual, Josh, and he’s had a fantastic season. He came up with a lot of big moments, even [in the final].

“Unfortunately, he didn’t quite get the team prize but it’s a nice honour for him from an individual point of view.”

Leinster Rugby head coach Leo Cullen praised Josh van der Flier after the flanker picked up the EPCR European Player of the Year award.