SAINTS legends will take part in a charity football match to support former manager Chris Nicholl's fight against dementia.

James Beattie, Matt Le Tissier, Wayne Bridge, Nicky Banger and Glenn Cockerill are just some of the football stars playing against Cockney Rebel Vets on Friday night.

Chris, 75, was diagnosed with dementia six years ago.

After the illness worsened, he moved back to Southampton to be closer to his family.

His daughter, Cathy, 47, said: “He lived with us at the height of Covid for about five months but with young children and isolation it could be quite dangerous.” 

She said the impact of the disease on her dad has been "heartbreaking", causing him not to recognise his four grandchildren.

Moving into an assisted living facility has “eaten away” at his savings, she said, as living at Speedwell Court is costing the former player £1500 a week. 

Funds raised through the charity match will help him with the costs. 

According to his daughter, Chris often thinks of his career as a Saints footballer, recognising many of the faces of fellow football enthusiasts from his time on the team - including those of the former players taking part in the charity match.  

Chris returned to Saints as manager in 1985, spending six years with the team - the same amount of time he spent as a player before going to Walsall.

The Independent Saddlers Supporters Association supporting all things Walsall has helped the family by keeping fans updated about his condition and raising money for a children's football school in his name. 

The charity match is due to be played at AFC Totton on Friday (May 13) with a 7.30pm kick off.

Tickets are £10 on the gate, £5 for concessions. 

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