Former Manchester United midfielder Philip Mulryne has taken an unusual post-football career step, as he continues his bid to become a Catholic priest.

The Northern Irishman, who earned 27 caps for his country in a career that included spells with Norwich and Cardiff City, was this week ordained as a deacon in the Catholic Church.

While many ex-players go into coaching or television punditry, Mulryne has ditched his life of glamour for something of a more spiritual existence.