SAINTS legend Franny Benali is set to take on a marathon trek charity walk raising money for Saints Foundation.

The walk will see the fan favourite hike 26 miles along the picturesque South Downs, spanning from Brighton to Eastbourne over two days. Fans can still join him if they sign up and raise charity cash.

Looking ahead to the fundraiser, Benali told the Daily Echo: “I want to help the city I was born in and the club I played for.

“I’m really looking forward to the day.

“I’m not underestimating it as it’s going to be a long couple of days.

“But I’m really happy to be supporting the Saints Foundation as they do a lot of great work in the community.”

Benali, who amassed more than 350 appearances for the Saints, is no stranger to gruelling endurance challenges in the aid of charity.

In 2014 the former Southampton full-back completed a three-week 1,000 mile challenge by running to all 20 Premier League grounds as he raised over £100,000 for Cancer Research UK.

READ MORE: Jones given support from Premier League CEO after Saints sacking

A little more than two years later in 2016, Benali raised more than £350,000 for the charity as he both ran and cycled to 44 football stadiums across the country combining the clubs of the top flight and the Championship.

Then in 2019, Benali completed a third challenge as he raced seven Ironman Triathlons in seven days.

The eye-watering task, entitled ‘IronFran’ saw Benali completed five Ironmans despite being hospitalised and out of action for two days.

Benali’s incredible commitment saw him raise £1million for Cancer Research UK.

Four years on, the Southampton FC Ambassador admits his next challenge is going to be a test.

He said: “I was planning with the Saints Foundation to complete another challenge sooner.

“We were thinking about doing something abroad but I’ve had back problems for the past two years which made it difficult to do these types of activities.

“Then obviously you add Covid into the equation and it’s only now that we’re able to get the next project off the ground.

“Ultimately, I’m hoping it will be a boost for the foundation.

“The walk is off-road and it’s going to be a test.

“I’m used to trainers, not walking boots!

“So, I’m having to bed them in.”

The fundraiser taking place over March 24 and 25 is a challenge with a difference as Benali will be joined by Saints fans on the walk.

Benali added: “I’m looking forward to the camaraderie of it.

“My wife is joining me as well, but I’m looking forward to getting to know everybody.

“There’s an information evening for anyone interested on Thursday, February 23, so if anyone’s interested in taking part, please come along.”

The information evening takes place at St Mary's Stadium in the evening.

See southamptonfc.com/saints-foundation