TWO former Saints stars who played for the club during the Second World War, but never met, were brought together more than 75 years after they swapped football field for  battlefield.

Charles White, who played in goal for Saints during the 1940-41 season, was treated to a VIP trip around St Mary’s Stadium after telling care home staff about his exploits.

But during his visit, which included a walk onto the pitch, the 95-year-old was interviewed by club historian David Bull.

He later told Charles that he was going to visit fellow wartime Saints goalkeeper, Arthur House – whom Charles replaced between the sticks.

Arthur, now 98, played at the Dell until 1939, when he left to join the Navy after the outbreak of the war.

He passed the gloves onto Charles, who played until 1941, when he left to join the Royal Air Force.

But despite playing just a year apart, and both under manager Tommy Parker, the pair never met.

Mr Bull offered to take Charles to see Arthur on the same day as his visit, an offer the former shot-stopper happily accepted.

Charles said: “It was marvellous to come and visit St Marys and it was just wonderful to meet Arthur.

“This has been one of the best days I’ve had in a long time.”

The trip was organised by Chris Martin, activities coordinator at Harrier Grange care home in Andover, were Charles now lives.

Mr Martin said: “This was an extremely special visit – it was easy to see that Charles really enjoyed the trip to St Mary’s to relive such an exciting time of his life.

“It was wonderful hearing such interesting stories about Charles’ playing days and his time serving for the RAF.

“Meeting Arthur was the icing on the cake for Charles.

“He was reciting stories of playing for the club like it was yesterday.”

During his time time at the club, Charles played alongside Saints legend Ted Bates who became known as “Mr Southampton” managed the club for 18 seasons from 1955.

In 1941, Charles was called up to fight in the war effort and joined the Royal Air Force where he helped fuel sea planes in the Seychelles.

When the war ended, Charles did not return to football and instead worked for the electricity board.

Arthur injured his arm in the war so was unable to resume his career and became a publican.