THOUSANDS of fans paid tribute to one of the South Coast's most popular footballer Matthew Le Tissier last night.

A sell-out crowd of 32,000 packed into the Friends Provident St Mary's Stadium to see his testimonial game between Southampton and an England XI.

The game brought an end to Le Tissier's 17 years of service and gave supporters a chance to say thank you for the loyalty he has shown towards the club and the 209 spectacular goals he has scored since joining Saints in 1985.

A star-studded England XI line-up included ex-Southampton goalie Tim Flowers, Peter Beardsley, Alan Shearer and the ever-entertaining Ian Wright.

Le Tissier's family members also got a chance to join in on the fun.

His brother Mark refereed the game and his two children Keeleigh and Mitchell joined in as mascots for the England team. And although it was a night for the big man himself, Le Tissier's son Mitchell stole the show by wooing the crowds and netting four goals in the 9-9 thriller. Southampton FC manager Gordon Strachan also made a surprise appearance on the pitch as did former England manager Kevin Keegan.

Walking off to the words of Frank Sinatra, Le Tissier told fans: "I did it my way, but I would like to think I also did it your way."

After the match the former England star confirmed that he has received an approach from Eastleigh assistant boss and former Terra, David Hughes - a former Southampton team-mate - to play for the Wessex League side.

And that could mean the Guernseyman turning out at Grove Corner against Portland United next season.

Le Tissier said: "I'm playing golf with Hughsie this week and he is going to try and talk me into turning out for Eastleigh for a couple of games next season."