HE used to be one of the most fearsome defenders in the Premier League, now Saints’ legend Franny Benali is tackling Thai food with a new venture at a Southampton restaurant.

The veteran left back is hosting three nights a week at Kuti’s Royal Thai Pier, Southampton curry magnate Kuti Miah’s |Far Eastern offering in the former Royal Pier gatehouse on the waterfront.

Franny famously scored only once for Saints but says now his only goal is to make sure customers have a great meal.

“Predominantly I’m here to see if people are having a good time and enjoying their experience,” he said. ”But if it means jumping behind the bar or clearing a few dishes from the tables then I’m happy to do that and help out. The conversation does turn |to football now and again and that’s great but I’m happy just to enjoy a chat on whatever topic.

“I am here to make sure everyone has fun.”

The Royal Pier site is full of memories for Franny.

“It’s a special place for me. I remember playing in the park here as a child when there was a paddling pool and a maze. I came here too when it was a bar and night-club and I met my wife Karen here so it has some lovely memories for me.

“What Kuti has done here is amazing. He has put an awful lot of time and effort to restore this place to life. It is fantastic and customers love the fact the building has been renovated and that they can enjoy it again.”

It’s not the first time Kuti and Franny have teamed up.

“I have known Kuti going back years. We were working together before in the brasserie on Oxford Street and it’s an opportunity to help him out again.”

Kuti said: “Franny is a legend and customers love him. He is one of Southampton’s favourite sons and it is great to be working with him again. Together I hope we can make the Kuti’s Royal Thai Pier the best night out in the city.”