The men's Six Nations get underway on Friday whilst current champions Ireland start their defence by welcoming England and their newly appointed captain Maro Itoje. When not leading his nations rugby team Maro collects African art and funds innovative schemes to help those who need help to attain the education they deserve. Born in North London to Nigerian parents Maro he's been telling Sportshour's Katie Smith about his life off the pitch and work the work of his charitable foundation.
From catches to crops, tackles to tilling and football to farming! For many a career in the NFL is what their entire life is primed for. But it can leave some, even those who achieve their dream feeling hollow, their life lacking meaning beyond the playing field. At the age of 29 and after seeing out a record-breaking contract that made him the best paid player in his position, in the NFL, he walked away from the game and into one of the worlds hardest professions. That is when Jason Brown the football star became Jason Brown the farmer. He has been telling Sportshour’s Katie Smith, early one morning from his fruit farm in North Carolina, about his remarkable story and about the two million tons of food he gives away annually for free.
The Premier League's winter transfer window has been open throughout January... but on Monday... it closes... Or slams shut if you prefer! So, this weekend marks a frantic and final opportunity for players to complete a move. So, who better to speak to than football agent Barry Silkman. Barry has been an agent for many years having had a successful career in the lower reaches of English football, although he also made a handful of appearances at Manchester City. After his career ended Barry realised there was a lack of player advocacy and so he set about helping other players get contracts. His client list over the years is illustrious and very nearly included finalising a deal for Newcastle United to buy Zinedine Zidane! As if football wasnt enough, Barry spread his wing into the world of entertainment and took several famous singers under his wing, including Rod Stewart and Phil Collins.
PHOTO: England captain Maro Itoje (CREDIT: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)