Great Britain flanker Brian Carney rates Saturday night's Australian rival Matt King the best winger in the world.

Carney, who scored two tries, including a spectacular 70-metre solo effort against New Zealand in the Lions' big Tri Nations comeback at the weekend, was full of praise for the Melbourne Storm centre and NSW Origin hero.

"I've seen some of the stuff he's done this year, it's been incredible," said Carney when asked his thoughts on King's rise from garbo to representative star.

"He's been the stand-out winger in the world.

"He and Lesley Vainikolo have been the best.

"It's always a joy to watch big players with the skills he has."

King was equally complimentary about Carney, saying he hoped the English winger headed infield a lot.

"That was the first time I've seen him when we played Great Britain," King said.

"He got rid of me a few times with that big, strong left-arm fend.

"He's a great player. It's good marking those sort of players and you know have to be on the top of your game to play against them.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP