Show/hide article…
IT IS the motivation he needs to keep him pounding the streets – the thought of coming home.
As Franny Benali nears the end of his mammoth charity endurance challenge, his thoughts are turning to Southampton.
He has already run 700,000 steps as he continues his incredible challenge to cycle and run to all 44 Premiership and Championship grounds in aid of Cancer Research UK.
Yesterday he set off from Norwich’s ground before visiting Ipswich on his way to Tottenham Hotspur’s ground, White Hart Lane.
From there he will set off today for a route through the capital where he will receive the support of scores of well wishers. before setting his sights for the South Coast.
Speaking last night the former Southampton player and fan’s favourite, said: “I can’t wait to get back to Southampton, knowing it will be the finish – and I can have a lie in!
“But I’m not wanting to take anything for granted, especially knowing how some of my injuries and niggles are. It’s reminding me that there’s a long way to go yet.
“I’m looking forward to completing it now and hopefully raising a huge amount of money.
“It feels very much like we’re heading south now so heading towards London. We’ll be in and around London tomorrow, then it will back down to Brighton which will be the last club before we hit St Marys.
“I’m visualising it a little bit but I’m not taking it for granted. I’ve got one eye on the end but I don’t want to take anything for granted.”
Speaking about the challenge, he added: “I’m enjoying finishing each day, that’s a good time of the day.
"Knowing that another day is over and I can start the recovery process.
"It’s nice knowing you’re getting closer and closer to the finish now so not too many more days.
"I would have liked it to have settled down a little bit more than what it actually has overnight. We’ll see how we get on, try and plough through it.”
Of the support he has been getting, Franny said: “Everyone’s amazing.
“A huge thank you from me for all the support and well wishers, messages and donations.
“Please keep them coming in. A big thank you.”
Among his supporters are Southampton singer Craig David and pop star Ronan Keating who have both sent well wishes.
Go to the original article…
...convincedly begot by Optimus trousers...beta v1.9 - now with EXTRA pictures!
Claude Puel has given a team news update ahead of 
| 
| 
