Former Saints footballer Francis Benali has been forced to medically retire from his IronFran challenge today (3rd May).

Francis aimed to tackle seven Iron Man triathlons in seven days, which meant running 183 miles, swimming 16 miles and cycling 784 miles in one week.

However on day four of his seven-day challenge, the decision was taken as he arrived into Farnborough last night (2nd May), following advice from Franny's sports therapist.

The Southampton legend continues to seek support to help him break through the million pound barrier for Cancer Research UK.

This decision has not been taken lightly but follows the recommendation of his sports therapist. Franny will receive further medical assessment from doctors in the hope that he will be able to return to complete his epic challenge tomorrow and return home to Southampton this weekend. Franny has been fully involved in making this decision but is obviously hugely disappointed to not be back in the pool and on the road today. This is not Fran quitting, this is a medical decision and his family and support team have decided they will continue IronFran on his behalf today – swimming, cycling and running for Franny. We would urge everyone to continue to show their support and turn out and cheer the team on and help Franny get to his £1m goal for Cancer Research UK." IronFran spokesperson

While Franny seeks medical assessment, his family and support team say they will continue IronFran on his behalf today (3rd May) – swimming, cycling and running.

His team say they hope he can continue tomorrow for his return home to Southampton this weekend.