Unorthodox, unbelievable, unique - Matthew Le Tissier is a footballing phenomenon. Breathtakingly brilliant and unswervingly loyal to Southampton, 'Le God' is widely regarded as one of the most gifted players of his - or any - generation.

Criticised by some for being lazy or lacking ambition, he steadfastly refused to compromise his ideals on how the game should be played - even at the cost of England caps or personal wealth.

Le Tissier was a Maverick to be treasured, a flair player who lit up every match he played in and delighted fans with his sumptuous technique and panache. In fact, the kind of skilful, inventive player and scorer of wonderful goals this country produces all too rarely.

Did he simply enjoy the comfort zone of being a big fish in a small pond? Or was it commendable loyalty that made him stay with the Saints for his entire career? Did he shun opportunities to move on? Were England managers right not to pick him so many times? Would Fabio Capello pick him for England now? Does the British game discourage his style of play? And how much would he be worth in today's transfer market?

Written with all the warmth, wit and outspoken honesty which have made him such a popular pundit for Sky Sports, Taking Le Tiss is the great man's first chance to answer all these questions and many more. It is also a delightfully self-deprecating and witty story from a player who was more of a 'Big-Mac-and-fries fella' then a 'chicken-and-beans man.