A SAINTS fan has taken his love of the club to new levels by changing his name in tribute to one of the club’s biggest legends.

James Bannerman, who was born and bred in Southampton, has taken steps to ensure that his passion for the team will last a lifetime.

Not only did the 35-year-old get a Southampton tattoo etched on his chest, but he has also changed his middle name to Le Tissier by deed poll in honour of the superstar former Saints midfielder.

The dad-of-two who works as a managing director of delivery service Hangover Angels, has no regrets over the tattoo and name change.

Daily Echo:

The tattoo was a birthday present by James’ girlfriend Jess Hunt, 26.

The name change was a spur of the moment decision after banter with a Huddersfield Town-supporting friend who also changed his name to one of the club’s players.

James said: “I have always wanted a tattoo, but because I used to be an actor I never had one.

“The only tattoo I wanted on there was Saints because the club has been a big part of my life since I was eight years old.

“I wanted to have Le Tissier in my name because he is my favourite Saints player. The loyalty he has shown to the club is amazing.

“I was lucky enough to watch him when I was growing up and I have a lot of happy memories of the goals he scored and what he did for the club.”

James tweeted the name change to Matthew Le Tissier, who shared it with his 434,000 Twitter followers.

It comes as Saints are refusing to give up on their European ambitions.

James is fully behind the #WeMarchOn campaign as the Saints push forward for a place in Europe next season, with the Daily Echo calling on all Saints fans to get behind the team as they bid to take the city's name overseas.

Daily Echo:

James, who now lives in Huddersfield, added: “It is great how well we’re doing. Koeman has done a fantastic job.

“It is well documented what happened in the summer given the player sales.

“Koeman has come in and made some great signings and brought unity amongst the players.

“I think we will get into Europe, and to go on a European tour would just be unbelievable.

“I went to Liverpool and spoke to Everton fans and they all spoke of the buzz European football brings to the club.”

  • Email Daily Echo reporter Michael Carr at michael.carr@dailyecho.co.uk or call 023 8042 4485 with what you are doing to help cheer the on the Saints to Europe.