A TENDON transplant could restore movement to a former Mottisfont footballer's badly damaged left foot.

Michael Jackson was forced to quit the game last November after his left leg was broken in seven places, while he was playing for Romsey's Sunday league team, the Hunters FC, based at the William IV pub.

The horrific tackle by a player from the Saints 11 ended Michael's soccer career and he's had 10 operations including skin grafts in a bid to repair the damage. Next week, 27-year-old Michael will hear from specialists at Southampton's Royal South Hants Hospital whether he is a suitable candidate for a tendon transplant.

"Things are looking much brighter for me now. I don't need any more skin grafts and the open wound is healing but I still have foot drop. I have got an appointment to see whether I can have a tendon transplant. I think they are fairly new. My GP suggested it. If the tendon transplant is successful I should be able to move my ankle again and walk much better. It will probably still leave me with a limp. And hopefully I will also be able to go back to work," said Michael, who has been dubbed Jacko by his mates.

Michael spent five weeks in hospital recovering from his injuries - described by doctors as on a par with those received in a car crash - and he is still having regular physiotherapy to help stimulate muscles in his leg.

On Saturday, May 6, Winchester City Football Club - one of the teams Michael played for - is hosting a testimonial in the talented semi-professional footballer's honour.

Michael said he is looking forwarded to it and he's hoping that ex-Saints star Matt Le Tissier will be there to sign autographs.

"Some players are being dragged out of retirement for the testimonial. We could have up to 40 players taking part. There could be 20 a side if we have that number taking part. We are starting at 1pm and having a challenge match at 3pm. I've have selected players from Mottisfont and the

Romsey area to play. I don't know yet how the teams will be split. Teams might be split between the over 30s and the under 30s," said Michael.

He added: "There will be an auction of a signed Saints shirt and football and a framed Everton team photo. It should be a fun afternoon for everyone including the kids. We have got Balloon

Fantasia from Romsey doing bouncy castles. Paul Kiddy, who owns Balloon Fantasia, it is doing it all for nothing and that's great of him."

Michael's testimonial game also includes a barbecue and late afternoon-evening disco at Winchester City's ground at Abbotts Barton.

Tickets are still available from Michael and people will also be able to buy them on the day at the gate. Donations of £5 will admit adults and children over 12. Please call 07780 688954 for tickets.