SAINTS boss George Burley has paid his own tribute to Alan Ball.

"A legend is the word," said Burley.

"Alan was a World Cup winner in 66, he played over 70 times for England and was one of the top players England has ever seen.

"I pitted my wits against him a few times when Alan was a manager of opposing sides.

"I spoke to him earlier in the season and his enthusiasm and love of the game really shone out.

"He loved his football, loved coming to watch Southampton play, but really he was a true football legend.

"I think everybody who has known Alan, and there's a lot of people in Southampton who knew him very well, would all say they were proud to know him.

"Everybody is thinking of his family and I'm sure he'll be sadly missed."

Saints fans travelling to Norwich tomorrow are being urged to weat ginger wigs or flat caps in memory of Ball.

Mick Channon on losing a special friend - see today's Daily Echo.