QPR striker Charlie Austin has spoken of admiration for Francis Benali and is urging people to donate to Cancer Research UK.

The former Poole Town striker (pictured) was there to greet the Saints legend as he arrived at Loftus Road on Benali’s Big Run yesterday. He said: “It’s incredible.

“Two marathons in a day take a very strong man to do what he’s doing and it’s for a great cause, so everyone should donate and show their support to him and Cancer Research.”

It’s a cause close to home for the 25-year-old ex Burnley striker, who played alongside side Saints attacker Jay Rodriguez at Turf Moor. “Of course, I’ve had family that have struggled with cancer and my partner has as well, so it’s something close to my family’s heart,” he said.