HE'S BETTER known for his silky skills in the box than his thinking out of it, but Saints hero Matthew Le Tissier is being given an honorary degree.

Yes, it will soon be 'Le God' hon MA after he picks up his honorary degree from Southampton Institute this Friday.

In a career filled with glittering moments, few will be prouder than when, complete with mortar board and gown, he accepts his scroll from institute principal Roger Brown.

The honour stunned even Le Tiss.

"I was surprised when I found out I'd be getting a degree, I certainly wasn't expecting it. I'm going to have to sit down and write a speech now I guess," he said.

But he reckons it's just desserts after football took him away from the classroom.

"I was pretty bright when I was at school, though I didn't fulfil all my academic promise because my sporting career took preference.

"I got O-levels in English lit, English language and maths, and CSEs in French, physics and chemistry.

"I think geography was the only exam I failed.

"I'm sure my school reports said 'is pretty bright but would do better if concentrated more!'"

Honorary degrees are traditionally given to the great and the good, or those who have served the area well.

Janet Bradford MBE, head of academic registry at Southampton Institute, said Matt deserves the Master of Arts (Honoris Causa) because of his loyalty to Southampton.

"Matthew Le Tissier's contribution to Southampton Football Club has not only been through the entertainment he has provided but also through the success he has achieved," she said.

"It is also in recognition of his loyalty to his club, commitment to the local community and the city of Southampton as a whole.

"He has been a leading figure undertaking fundraising for numerous charities and has played a significant part in promoting their good work within the region."

Other honorary graduates of the institute this year include Formula One motor racing legend Murray Walker, TV and drama producer Graham Benson, former Times Higher Educational Supplement editor Auriol Stevens and renowned entrepreneur Balram Gidoomal CBE. Next week's series of graduation ceremonies also see 70-year-old Radio Solent sports commentator Norman Murphy pick up a fine arts degree.

The Chandler's Ford pensioner enrolled aged 67 after abandoning his dream of a university education as a youth to support his family.

"I feel great about it," he said. "I always regretted not having a university education and I am going to be extremely proud of myself when I get my cap and gown."