Brentford and Ireland defender John Egan continuing a proud sporting tradition

A recent visit back to Sneem, to see a bronze statue of his legendary father unveiled, has pushed Brentford and Ireland defender John Egan to aim even higher this season, as he bids to create his own sporting legacy at the start of a new campaign.

John Egan Snr, a GAA icon and one of the all-time greats of Kerry football, may no longer be with us but he continues to inspire his son, who has chosen soccer for his career and is making strides in the English Championship, which kicks off tonight, a week ahead of the Premier League.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season last year, playing regularly at centre-back for west London-based Brentford and earning two caps for the Boys in Green. Now a summer trip back to his roots has refocused the Cork-born star who began his career as a young man at Greenwood FC.