FORMER Saints defender Neil Ruddock could become part of reality television royalty if he is crowned winner of Celebrity Big Brother during tonight’s final.

Although famous for his tough guy persona on the football field, the 44-year-old has won over viewers of Celebrity Big Brother by showing his caring side towards his fellow housemates and his willingness to take part in the tasks.

An angry outburst earlier in the series, which started three weeks ago, led to him being reprimanded by Big Brother, but since then he has kept his cool, throwing himself into tasks that have seen him dressed up as a woman and a horse that was ordered to carry jockey Frankie Dettori around the house.

But he faces stiff competition in the final, up against favourite Rylan Clarke, who rise to fame during last year’s X Factor, and the highly controversial TV reality couple, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt, known as Speidi.

Steps star Claire Richards and Neighbours stalwart Ryan Maloney will also be vying for viewers’ votes in a bid to win the celebrity crown.

The winner will be announced during the show tonight on Channel 5, starting at 9pm.