SAINTS star Graeme Le Saux is helping to launch a new scheme aimed at restoring the game's badly tarnished reputation.

Le Saux, along with a host of other top-flight names, has been recruited to become a football ambassador by one of the country's leading charities.

His role will include getting involved with coaching sessions, opening new pitches and even joining youngsters in the classroom to help them improve their reading skills.

Stars already confirmed include Le Saux, Gareth Southgate of Middlesborough, and Alan Shearer and Jonathon Woodgate of Newcastle.

The idea has been organised by the Football Foundation, the game's charitable arm, which receives about £60m each year from the Premier League, the Football Association and the Government.