SOUTHAMPTON Football Club fans have not had a lot to smile about in recent months – but that could all change if speculation that Matt Le Tissier is to become chairman comes true.

It has been reported in the UK media that former Saints and England idol Le Tissier, a Guernsey legend, could be in line for the top job at the stricken club.

Ever since the club was put into administration, Le Tissier (pictured) has backed the Pinnacle Group in its efforts to save it.

And the group has now paid £500,000 for a period of exclusivity in negotiating the deal with administrators, making it almost certain that it will become the new owner.

It is understood that one man – anonymous at this stage – is putting the cash in for the purchase and he plans to bring Le Tissier on board to help run the club and restore faith among supporters.

Mark Le Tissier told the Guernsey Press yesterday that his brother was unable to comment at the moment but hoped Matt would be able to do so by the end of this week.