WITH a footballing career spanning 17 years at Saints behind him, former defender Francis Benali has plenty to say about the beautiful game.

The former player was more than happy to share his top tips with youngsters at Beechwood Junior School in Southampton.

He gave each of the 16-member squad a signed football for their efforts during this season which saw them come second in their junior league.

All the Year 5 and Year 6 footballers were trained by Year 4 teacher Hugh Stanley who after six years in the job is leaving the school to take up a new post in Peterborough.

He said: "The fitness side of playing football is so important for the youngsters. I hope that by starting to play football in school the boys might gain confidence to join other clubs and teams."