John Barnes signs up for 71 Degrees North

John Barnes has replaced Martin Kemp in '71 Degrees North'.

The former footballer jetted to Norway from South Africa this week to take part in the ITV1 show - which sees 10 celebrities battle it out in a number of challenges in the Scandinavian Arctic - after Spandau Ballet star Martin suffered a back injury.

A source said: "Being in South Africa did not put him off. He just said, 'When do you need me?', and the reply was 'now'.

"He jumped on the next flight and landed in Norway this week. Martin had totally crocked himself and was ruled out by the medics. He did something to his back and was crying out in pain. The producers were panicking as they are in the middle of filming."

Although he retired from football over ten years ago, John, 47, is not worried about injuries as friends say he is still very fit.

The source added to The Sun newspaper: "He's up for all the challenges and is still pretty fit for someone who hasn't played pro football for more than ten years."

This year's show - which will be hosted by 'Take Me Out' host Paddy McGuinness and sports anchorwoman Charlotte Jackson - features Nicky Clarke, Sean Maguire, John Thomson and Angelica Bell.