KEVIN SINFIELD has been hailed as an “absolute inspiration” by former RTE journalist Charlie Bird as the rugby league great continued his mammoth ultra-marathon challenge yesterday in aid of motor neuron disease.

Sinfield, the current England Rugby defence coach, set off on day five of the “7 in 7 in 7” challenge on a bitterly cold day in Dublin.

The 43-year-old is running an ultra-marathon every day for seven days in seven cities around Britain and Ireland, inspired by former Leeds team-mate Rob Burrow.

Bird, who is battling MND, thanked Sinfield for his efforts.

He said: “You are an absolute inspiration.

“I have cried every day watching you running marathon after marathon raising awareness and funds for MND all in the name of your best friend Rob Burrow.

“The money you have made is fantastic. He is a very lucky man to have a friend like you.

“I saw the picture of you carrying Rob over the finish line of one of your marathons, what an iconic image.”

Sinfield said it was “an honour” for the team to be in Dublin and representing Bird.