PAUL SMITH has been praised by England's acting goalkeeping coach - and is being tipped for future international stardom by those who know him best.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper has been outstanding for Saints in recent weeks, giving Harry Redknapp a welcome selection headache now that Antti Niemi is back in full training ahead of tomorrow's FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United.

Niemi, who is firmly established among the best goalkeepers in world football, has missed the last six matches following a minor operation to his knee.

Saints goalkeeping coach David Coles, left, hailed Smith's performances and revealed that members of the England coaching staff have been in contact.

"I spoke to the Brentford goalkeeping coach the other night and we both thought he's got every shout of playing for England one-day," said Coles.

"Martin Thomas is reporting for Ray Clemence at the moment and he spoke to me on Sunday. He said he was 'really, really impressed.'

"Paul Smith's eyes light up when you tell him that he could play for England one-day, but he still has a long way to go.

"It's just been a fantastic month for Paul Smith. The big thing is he's proved that he can play in the Premiership and the next thing is for how long.

"He has an air of confidence, a presence and nothing seems to fluster him.

"Nothing really amazes me with him. I was sat watching believing he would do alright, I've got that belief in him."

Coles, though, admits it is an awesome task to supersede Niemi as Saints' number one and stressed the camaraderie within the club's goalkeeping unit.

"Antti appreciates what Paul has done, but he's dying to get back in," said Coles.

"They are the best of friends, there's no animosity between these two whatsoever.

"Antti will ring me up and say 'Smudger has done really well'. They love working together, they are good friends.

"Antti thrives on competition, the same as Paul does. But Antti is certainly the best goalkeeper I've worked with. He came in and broke the mould, he's a great goalkeeper.

"He's got a presence that's very unerring. His presence is immense.

"It's good for the club that we have both of them and it gives the manager a big headache."