All three of Saints’ England stars have the ability to make a serious impact at the World Cup, according to Francis Benali.

The former left-back described the call-ups for Rickie Lambert, pictured right, Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw as a proud moment for both the club and the city.

And he believes each of them has the capacity to shine in Brazil.

“Most definitely,” he said. “We’ve seen all of them play already.

“Rickie scored with his first touch on his debut, Adam seemed to just seamlessly flit onto the international stage as well as he does at domestic level, and Luke didn’t look fazed by it when he made his debut, so I see no reason why none of them shouldn’t have an impact or have any doubts about appearing at any stage of the competition really.”

Speaking about their selections, Benali added: “It’s fully justified. Their performances have been outstanding, all three of them this season, and for longer as well.

“Rickie and Adam have been doing it for some time now, and Luke’s come onto the scene and just blown everyone away with his ability and his matureness for someone so young.

“Luke has got so much going for him at a young age. He can defend, not many players go by him easily, if at all, and he is an attacking threat as well, which is the modern-day full-back.

“He shows maturity beyond his years, considering the amount of football he has played so far.

“I think his all-round game for such a young player is so strong.”