Joe Marler may have hung up his England boots, but don’t call it retirement just yet—he’s already got a crucial new gig with the national team
After having the summer off, the former prop has returned to his role as Player Welfare Manager ahead of the Autumn Internationals, ensuring England’s stars are looked after on and off the pitch.
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From managing match workloads to prioritising mental health, Marler’s focus is all about keeping the squad in peak condition.
Podcast Confessions: Joe’s New Chapter
Speaking on the For The Love of Rugby podcast, the 34-year-old revealed the challenges—and surprising moments—of his job so far. He shared how he’s become a bridge between younger players and their intimidating Directors of Rugby.
“They’d never speak to the DoRs without fearing they’d be judged as soft,” Joe Marler explained. Now, he’s stepping in to have those tough conversations.
Marler’s Mantra: “Who Better Than Me?”
On his approach to player welfare, Joe Marler said, “It’s about making sure the players are looked after so they can perform and have longevity. Who better to understand how hard it is to be an England rugby player, and the toll it takes, than the boys who’ve been there?”
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“Dad was the best” – Six rugby sons who failed to match their father’s achievements
In rugby, legacy is a powerful force—but not always a guarantee of success.
These six sons of rugby legends had the world at their feet but ultimately fell short of matching their fathers’ towering achievements.
Cameron Redpath (Son of Bryan Redpath)
Cameron Redpath, son of former Scotland captain Bryan Redpath, began his career with promise. He represented England at age-group levels before switching to Scotland, earning 14 caps and playing in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
However, his career has been marred by a series of major surgeries, including two ACL reconstructions and multiple shoulder and neck operations. These setbacks have limited his playing time and hindered his ability to reach the heights of his father’s illustrious career.
Despite his resilience and determination, Redpath’s injuries have prevented him from becoming a mainstay in the Scotland team.
Louis Lynagh (Son of Michael Lynagh)
Louis Lynagh, son of Australian World Cup winner Michael Lynagh, has carved out his own path in rugby. He represented England at age-group levels before making his Six Nations debut for Italy, scoring a try against Scotland.
While he has shown promise, Lynagh has not yet achieved the same level of success as his father, who earned 72 caps and was a key figure in Australia’s 1991 World Cup victory.
His international career is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen if he can reach the heights of his father’s legacy.
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