Spirit of Schmeichel helps Brown soar

Manchester United fan Mike Brown has revealed his spectacular diving catch in England’s 13-10 Six Nations victory over Ireland was inspired by Peter Schmeichel.

Brown plucked a low kick by Brian O’Driscoll from the air in a remarkable display of athleticism described by Ireland’s head coach Joe Schmidt as the game’s defensive highlight.

The 28-year-old, who was named man of the match for a second successive game, has revealed his goalkeeping skills were honed in a drill performed with Harlequins team-mate and Liverpool fan Danny Care.