Rishi Sunak heaps praise on Southampton FC manager

The PM has regularly spoken about his love for the Saints

The prime minister has praised Southampton FC manager Russell Martin during a day of campaigning on the south coast.

Rishi Sunak said Martin, whose side are on a 20-game unbeaten streak, was doing an "incredible job" and the team were playing "the most wonderful football".

The PM made the comments as he answered BBC Radio Solent listeners' questions on Friday morning.

Mr Sunak grew up in Southampton and often mentions his love for the Saints.

The PM spoke to members of the public in Eastleigh during his visit

Answering a question about the experience of going back to St Mary's Stadium, the prime minister said: "I tend to sit with the directors in that bit of the stands but actually, thankfully, my family's season tickets are all just near there as well, so I get to see them at the same time."

He added: "It's what I grew up doing. It's my number one love."

During the interview, he also answered questions on key national issues such as tax cuts, inflation and the NHS.

Mr Sunak later visited Eastleigh FC's Silverlake Stadium where he met first team players, coaches and managers of the National League club.

The PM also chatted with Eastleigh FC during his campaign trip

Speaking about Eastleigh's FA Cup run, he said: "Clubs like this are a great example of the benefits that football bring to the local community, like the cup run that has done an enormous amount to just boost a local community and bring everyone together."

He added: "Even my mum picked up on it and was excited."

He also commented about negativity faced by female football commentators and pundits, saying the profession should be "open to everybody".

"I have two young girls and I'd love it if one of them wanted to be a football commentator when they grew up," he said.

Mr Sunak was in Hampshire campaigning in the build-up to the General Election, which is expected to take place this year.

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