An audience with Maro Itoje of Saracens and England

Itoje on his Nigerian and English roots: “I consider myself as Nigerian British. Obviously my blood is Nigerian which is evident for you all to see, but I was born and raised in north London so I have connections to both countries. I love both countries.” Itoje on being in the media spotlight “The most important thing has been, and will always be, rugby. That’s what got me here, and everything has happened as a result of rugby performances. I’ve got good people around me – good management, good coaches, a great place to play rugby, and I’ve got an awesome family. I’m just fortunate to have loads of good people around who look after me, and care for me. Fortunately, they know where the priorities are as well, so everything falls into place.” Itoje on his charity connection “I am patron for a charity called Team Archie which gives scholarships to underprivileged people who don’t have access to engage in sport.” Itoje on his Politics degree (School of African and Oriental Studies) “It’s going well. I’ve got some work to do which you’re holding me from! I graduate in May. It’s hard managing it... (but) it’s something I’m determined to finish. I enjoy it at times. Obviously it’s not always enjoyable – especially when you come home from training after a hard day and you have to read some articles which are not all the time interesting. But I know it will benefit me in the long run.” Itoje on politics “I know at this point in my life I don’t want to be a politician.” Itoje on being fitter and stronger after hand injury “The hand is ok. It is still a bit big and I have some scar tissue in there, but it is strong. I was running like my East African brothers during that time. I’d like to think I got a little bit fitter. I’d be disappointed if I didn’t because that would be a lot of effort wasted.”