• Richard Boardman dropped by group of rugby players

• Football group includes family of Nobby Stiles

The solicitor dismissed by a group of over 1,000 rugby players with brain injuries who are suing the sport’s governing bodies is still leading a similar claim on behalf of dozens of former footballers.

Richard Boardman told a hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice this week of his intention to “come off the record,” with the claimants indicating that they had unanimously agreed to terminate their dealings with his firm, Rylands Garth.