The Saints star brought his mother tongue to life when he joined pupils in celebrating European Languages Day.

Algerian born Belmadi took part in a question and answer session in French with 11-year-olds at Orchard Junior School in Dibden Purlieu.

More than a hundred excited children crowded to greet the Saints midfield star, who has played much of his football in France.

Head teacher Bob Carson said: "He said he was more nervous about that than on match day.

"It was terrific for the children. We always try to make the curriclum as vibrant and fun as possible.

"Even if they didn't understand every word, what they had learned in lessons really started to connect."

The pupils, who start learning French from the age of seven with the help of teacher Jan Faint, spent the day tasting European foods, playing continental games and making models of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower.