LES Ferdinand brought his 21-year-old son Aaron with him on his trip to Bahrain for a morale-boosting break as the young striker tries to follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional footballer.

Last New Year the youngster was undergoing a major operation to repair his shattered left leg after a crunching tackle in the penalty box looked like it may have put paid to a promising career before it had started.

Aaron was severely injured by a lunging clearance attempt by an opposing goalie to prevent him from scoring for Conference South side St Albans City. His powerful running and goal-scoring talent appeared to be a 'chip off the old block' and Championship side Watford was set to sign him up on professional terms. "I can remember the incident so clearly in my mind - my standing leg was taken away and I had no chance.

"Doctors have said that I can start playing football again next month so I'm very excited although I appreciate the hard work is only just about to start."

At least the young man will have his proud father to turn to for support. 'Sir' Les suffered serious Achilles problems during his time playing for Tottenham and says it takes real strength of character to fight back to fitness from injury. "Injuries are part and parcel of the game. You've got to keep your head up, stay confident and determined."

The former England international hopes to instil his 'never say die' attitude to the current Spurs team after being approached by recently-installed manager Harry Redknapp to coach the improving Premiership side's strikers.

"Harry believes there are a number of players of my generation who have still got lots to offer the sport," said Ferdinand, 42, who aims to further his coaching skills and obtain the necessary qualifications and experience needed to qualify for a management hot-seat in the future.

As a player he says former Newvcastle boss Kevin Keegan was the best 'man motivator' and ex-England coach Terry Venables the top strategist.