THIS MONTH WE PUT THE SPOTLIGHT ON JEREMY GUSCOTT

What’s life been like since you stopped playing Rugby?
Pretty good really. It took me a while to find my feet and work out what I wanted to do with the rest of my life! I was approached by the BBC and subsequently started working for them and I also write for The Sunday Times which I really enjoy. During the last year, I’ve become a partner in a small business.

Do you get nervous when you have to broadcast live in front of millions of people for the BBC?
I was very nervous to begin with. With 6-7 million people watching you, you feel you have to say what you think they want to hear, it takes a while to become yourself. I am much more relaxed these days and it is a really nice job to have.

What do you think of the state of English Rugby today?
Could be a lot better would be an immediate answer, where to begin? Since the retirements and loss of form from the 2003 world cup winning squad very little has gone right for England. Little, if any work had been done in preparation for life as World Champions, subsequently it was left to the remaining players to make the best of bad planning, this clearly failed.

What do you think of England’s chances in the Six Nations?
I’m optimistic but realistic. After finishing 4th two seasons running, I believe they have a chance of improving but to finish above Ireland or France is a big ask! (at time of writing Championship had not started)

How do you think the new coaching regime is working out for the team?
There has been little evidence so far to make me believe that events on the field are going to be turned around quickly, but having been coached before by Brian Ashton at Bath and England I do believe in his philosophies. If he picks on form and creates competition for places on the team, England will improve. Most importantly the players have to buy in to Brian Ashton!

What’s your workout regime nowadays?
Non-existent! I walk up and down stairs, run occasionally for a train and that’s about it! However, Christmas may have forced me to re-consider my approach as everything fits rather too snugly!

Has becoming well known changed you?
I don’t believe so. I’m pretty balanced. I still live in the town that I was born and raised in and this helps a great deal. I have friends that I’ve known for 30 years and the fact we’re still friends makes me believe I couldn’t have changed that much!

Who has been your biggest influence?
Too many people to mention and they are all connected with rugby. So for me it is not whom but what, the what being Rugby!

Who is your hero?
My hero has always been Pele. When I was a kid kicking the ball against our garage wall I was always Pele scoring goals. Men like Mohamed Ali, Michael Jordan, Ian Botham and Tiger Woods all come very very close.

How would you describe your style?
When I’m working I’d like to think my style is sharp but relaxed.

What difference has it made to be ‘dressed’ by Austin Reed?
As a man my shopping experience was all rush and tear, enjoyment wasn’t part of the schedule! Austin Reed has taught me that shopping can be a fantastic experience. They make it very easy for me to get whatever I need. I know I will walk out of the store looking great!

Has working with Austin Reed changed the way you put your clothes together?
I think I have learnt from them how to put pieces together to create a whole look. They have just launched a premium range of suits and shirts called Signature, which I enjoy wearing.

What are your favourite pieces and why?
I love the Chelsea range of suits, for me they look great and feel just right and that makes me confident. The luggage is really stylish.

What’s your greatest extravagance?
My girlfriend Saz!

What keeps you awake at night?
Very little, I sleep like a dead man.

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