'A goal is a goal' – Joe Marler channels inner his Cristiano Ronaldo with headed assist for bizarre England try at the 2023 Rugby World Cup

The charismatic Harlequins prop is never afraid to make himself the centre of attention, but achieved that by accident during a meeting with Japan in Nice. England were defending a narrow 13-12 lead when a George Ford pass slipped through the hands of Will Stuart and bounced off the head of the unsuspecting Marler.

The ball dropped kindly into the path of England captain Courtney Lawes, who duly crossed the line for a try that the match officials had to award following a TMO review as a knock-on cannot be flagged if the ball strikes a player on the head.

Marler has taken great delight in his impromptu Ronaldo impression – comparing his accidental header to the one delivered by the superstar from the world of football during his days at Juventus. Alongside a video of his face superimposed onto Ronaldo’s body, Marler posted on TikTok: “A goal is a goal.”

Eastbourne native Marler also claims to have been inspired by Brighton’s efforts in the Premier League this season, following their 3-1 win over Manchester United on Saturday, telling Sky Sports: “I take huge inspiration from Roberto De Zerbi and his mighty Seagulls doing a demolition job on United. Just taking huge inspiration from them and finding a way to help the boys score.”