New book about life of ex Southampton FC coach and scout

The completion of Last Man Standing: John Sainty, from Saint to Saints and Beyond has been a labour of love by John's wife of 20 years Lindsay and author Neil Vacher.

They decided to continue with publication of the book, which was close to completion before John's sudden death two years ago.

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It features three chapters on his time at Saints, including assistant manager, academy director and scouting roles, plus setting up 'The Lodge' a home from home for scholars on Hill Lane. 

Since John's passing, tributes have been weaved in to the text from the likes of former managers Dave Jones and Stuart Gray and ex players James Beattie, Neil Moss, Jason Dodd and Chris Baird. 

(Image: Family collection) Lindsay said: "John first started jotting down notes for the book when he was 21. When we got together in the early 2000s, I started putting it all on the computer. 

"It really got going after a big party for his 70th birthday where lots of memories were shared.

"He always said he didn't care if he didn't sell a single copy, he just wanted it all to actually be in a book. I wanted to do that for him after he died. 

"I received some wonderful responses when I contacted former colleagues, so they're all included too. I don't think he realised how highly thought of he was."

(Image: Family collection) Former England schoolboy John was one of the heroes of Bournemouth's first promotion in the 70s, was once the Cherries' leading goalscorer, and played or coached at Manchester City, Spurs and more during a 42-year career in football.

John formed a formidable partnership with Dave Jones at Stockport County, which led to the Saints gig. Jones dubbed Sainty 'the quiet assassin' in the dressing room where he would take stock of everything and add clever observations.

Last Man Standing: John Sainty, from Saint to Saints and Beyond is out now.