A newly-formed team of under 14 footballers on the Isle of Wight have been given a much needed lift, thanks to Southampton FC captain Jack Stephens.

The defender has penned a letter to Ryde Saints Rovers praising them for their "perseverance and spirit", despite a run of tough results.

Rovers were set up at the end of last season after the club saw an increase in players turning up for training.

Newly-appointed coach, Spike Oatley, decided to split the under 14s into two teams, "otherwise there would be nowhere for these boys to play."

Isle of Wight County Press: From left: Illya Simpson of sponsors, Clear Advice Mortgage Services, Ryde Saints Rovers players, and Glen Pridham.From left: Illya Simpson of sponsors, Clear Advice Mortgage Services, Ryde Saints Rovers players, and Glen Pridham. (Image: Ryde Saint Rovers)

"In the space of six months we’d more than doubled our numbers going from having 18 players signed on for one team to 40 players across the two teams", Spike told the County Press.

Spike became manager of the Rangers team and Glen Pridham, a parent of one of the players, took on the Rovers side.

But being a new team with little experience, the results have been tough to take so far.

In an attempt to give the players a much-needed confidence boost, Eddie Sherwin, a parent, reached out to Southampton FC.

"I was wondering if there was anything you could do, which could boost their confidence and inspire this great group of lads", his letter said.

Isle of Wight County Press: Jack StephensJack Stephens (Image: PA)

Isle of Wight County Press: Letter from Jack Stephens.Letter from Jack Stephens. (Image: Ryde Saints Rovers)

Much to his surprise, the club received a response from captain, Jack Stephens.

It said: "We hear that your season hasn't been the easiest so far...

"They say that nothing worth having ever comes easily and that can be said especially of playing football...

"We would like to congratulate Ryde Saints Rovers for your perseverance and spirit.

"You may not have won many games, but you have won respect and admiration for showing that you are not quitters, but fighters who never give up."

Spike and Glen told the County Press they are "immensely proud of the boys" and they are incredibly grateful to the player and club for helping.

"These words will definitely give the lads a much needed lift as they continue their football journey", they said.