Organisers of the Saints Legends vs Isle of Wight Legends charity match have confirmed a strong Scandinavian presence in the Southampton Legends squad ahead of the highly anticipated fixture on Friday 8th May at the home of Cowes Sports F.C.
Swedish legends Anders Svensson and Michael Svensson will both be pulling on the red and white once again.
Anders Svensson remains the most capped Swedish player of all time, making 148 appearances for his national side and representing his country at major international tournaments. Alongside him, former Saints defensive stalwart Michael Svensson also enjoyed a strong international career, earning over 25 caps for Sweden.
Adding to the Scandinavian line-up is former Saints goalkeeper Antti Niemi, a hugely popular figure among Southampton supporters and widely regarded as one of the club’s standout goalkeepers of the modern era who also had over 60 caps for Finland. All 3 players were also part of the Southampton side that reached the 2003 FA Cup Final, adding further pedigree to the line-up.
In a show of commitment to the occasion, both Anders and Michael Svensson will be travelling from Sweden specifically to take part in the match, while Antti Niemi will be flying in from Finland, highlighting the strong connection these former Saints players still have with the club and its fans.
These additions come together to create what is shaping up to be a brilliant night of football, which already includes the likes of Matt Oakley, Jo Tessem and Rickie Lambert in the Southampton Legends line-up.
All players were key figures during memorable periods for Southampton F.C. and remain firm fan favourites.
The match at Westwood Park will see a Southampton Legends side take on an Isle of Wight Legends XI in what promises to be a fantastic evening of football, nostalgia and community spirit.
John Davies, Chairman of Newport I.W. F.C., said the announcement adds real excitement to the event.
“To have players like Anders Svensson, Michael Svensson and Antti Niemi involved is fantastic for the Island. These are players that supporters remember very fondly and who played at the highest level for Southampton.
“The fact the lads are travelling over to be part of this shows how special the night will be, and we’re expecting a brilliant turnout.”
The previous legends match held on the Island attracted over 2,000 supporters, and organisers are expecting another strong turnout as excitement builds ahead of the May event.
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30, with tickets priced at £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and under-16s, available online.
