Football: Saints eye Harding cash

The legacy left in the will of the former Chelsea vice-chairman Matthew Harding could rescue Southampton's plans to build a new stadium.

Saints are awaiting details of a proposal to use part of Harding's multi- million pound estate as funding for their new ground at Stoneham. Harding made no secret of his affection for Saints - he once called the club "Chelsea on Sea" - and his executors are examining Southampton as a possible investment.

Southampton's board are awaiting the sale of Harding's 40 million shares in the London club to see how much they will be given towards the cost of building their new ground.

A spokesman for the Harding estate said Southampton were among the clubs being examined for possible funding. "There is a big possibility we will invest money in Southampton," he said.