SAINTS boss Russell Martin is set to receive an honorary degree for his work in football from the University of Brighton.

The 38 year old is to become an honorary doctor of science later this week to celebrate his sporting success and charity work through the Russell Martin Foundation.

The retired defender started the foundation in 2017, originally as a football academy, but the project has since grown to deliver football, education and health programmes.

Brighton-born Martin will be one of three people to receive an honorary degree from the university. 

READ MORE: The man behind Southampton's modern manager Russell Martin 

He said: “Receiving this honorary degree is a privilege deepened by the fact it comes from the University of Brighton in my hometown.

“The university’s values truly reflect this unique place I am proud to call home. It’s a privilege to be engaged in the work I do and this honour is recognition of the work of the local foundation I helped create.”

The University of Brighton said: “Today, and through its Extra Time project, which is supported by Brighton and Hove City Council, the foundation works with all 10 secondary schools in the city and 40 schools across Sussex to identify and support young people who need respite from mainstream education.”