SAINTS football legend Matthew Le Tissier will today receive the highest honour the city can bestow upon him - its freedom.

Nicknamed Le God, the former striker will join a distinguished list of recipients of the award including former Prime Minister David Lloyd George, Lord Kitchener and Saints club president Ted Bates.

Le Tissier, 34, is single-handedly credited with keeping Saints in top-flight football throughout the 1990s. His efforts may not have been rewarded with England caps, only winning eight, but this award may go some way towards rectifying that.

Matt Le Tissier said: "It is something that I never expected. It's quite an illustrious title and I'm very honoured.

"I've got a few members of my family

coming down for the ceremony and we'll be celebrating with a meal in the evening."

He will be given the title, in the form of a scroll, before Southampton kick off against Birmingham City at St Mary's stadium.

Although the freedom of the city no longer entitles you to any special privileges, it has been compared to receiving an MBE from the Queen but on a city level.

Mayor Brian Parnell, said: "It is increasingly rare to see someone put love of their adopted home ahead of financial reward. Matthew's contribution to the football club's uninterrupted Premiership status has maintained Southampton's national profile."

"We hope the Freedom of the City does, in a small way, repay that debt of gratitude."

Spectators are advised to be in their seats at the Friends Provident St Mary's Stadium by 2.30pm to be sure of witnessing the ceremony at 2.45pm.