DELL legend Francis Benali insists Luke Shaw has “endless opportunities” as the starlet prepares to commit his long-term future to Saints.

Shaw is expected to sign a five-year contract at St Mary’s on his 18th birthday this Friday - in the same way that James Ward-Prowse did when he celebrated that birthday last November.

Benali, who spent 16 years at Saints playing in Shaw’s left back role, believes the club’s newest high class academy graduate is destined for a superb career.

“I want his future at Southampton football club,” said Benali of the youngster who has continually been linked to clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United.

“He’s come through the ranks of the club and his performances and maturity that he showed for such a young player last season was amazing.

“Luke was certainly one of the highlights of the season.

“He’s cemented the position as his own with the performances he’s put in.

“Myself, along with every other Saints fan in the world, is looking forward to see him continuing to play in a Saints shirt.”

Benali added: “The opportunities that he’s got ahead of him are endless.

“He’ll be looking at gaining more experience and cementing further his place in the team and playing on a regular basis.

“Beyond that, he’ll build his international honours.

“We’ve had numerous players go and do that from us, and I see no reason if he continues his development to be one of those players who goes on to be a full international.”

Benali insists Saints are no longer a selling club after losing young talent like Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the last eight years.

“You’ve seen it already with players like Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and other players that have committed their long term future to the club,” said Benali.

“It’s an indication that Southampton can compete with a lot of the bigger clubs, especially on a financial basis, and that goes a long way to securing players’ signatures.

“The backing the club has got now puts us in a competitive environment.

“Money is no guarantee of success but it gives us a fighting chance and the fact that we’ve consolidated our Premier League status gives us a big chance to kick on next season.

“I’m optimistic about this season.

“This stage of the summer every supporter and player feels the same.

“We couldn’t havegot a tougher start than the one we did have last season.

“The fixtures have been a little bit kinder for next season, so if we can get off to a good start then who knows - anything is possible.”

Benali is looking forward to seeing manager Mauricio Pochettino to inject some extra pace into his squad.

“Some pace in the team is a massive asset at any level,” he said.

“The higher you go in the Premier League, it is crucial to have an attacking force with pace, whether that’s in the form of a striker or a wide player.”