As well as being the name of a Sci-Fi writer, John Barnes is also the name of a very talented English footballer. He hit the big time when he scored a fantastic solo goal against Brazil while playing for England in a friendly match at the Maracana. The goal is widely regarded as one of the best English international goals ever scored.
Originally born in Jamaica, his professional football career began when his family moved to England and he signed for Watford FC in the English Second Division. With Barnes's help the team soon achieved promotion to the First Division (now the Premiership), and he was soon signed by the best English team around at that time, Liverpool FC.
Barnes tolerated much racism from idiotic hooligans during his early career, but his unstoppable talent eventually earned him PFA Player of the Year awards and various major trophies with Liverpool. He also had many caps with the England football team, and played a vital role in World Cup: Mexico 1986 and World Cup: Italy 1990.
Once his playing career was over he had a brief stint as player/manager with Glasgow Celtic before settling into a job as a pundit with ITV.