Francis Benali has been joined by one special pedigree chum who has given him a giant boost as he tries to complete Benali’s Big Run.

The family labrador, Ben – also known as the ‘jog dog’ – has been just the tonic he needs to get through the final stages of his epic run, in which he is attempting to run between all 20 Premier League clubs and raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The friendly pooch’s wagging tail has provided a spring in Franny’s step as he enters day 18 of his challenge where he’ll try to reach Loftus Road, the home of Queens Park Rangers – his first club after reaching Swansea’s Liberty Stadium on Sunday.

They are set to arrive at the ground at about 2.30pm and will be greeted by QPR striker Charlie Austin.

“There’s been a lot of positives with friends and family joining us and it’s great to get that support, it’s a massive boost in fact,” he said.

“Our friends have brought up the dog and we’ve all missed him, we’ve not seen him for a few weeks.

“Psychologically it’s a great boost.

“To a degree it feels like I’m heading home now.

“It’s not directly to Southampton yet, it’s just the little mind barriers are being lifted as we start to recognise local place names on signs.”

After yesterday’s run from Swindon to the small village of Nettlebed in Oxforshire, Benali said: “It was a good day. I’ve had a bit of knee pain and was in some discomfort.

“It didn’t threaten the day, but it was a bit annoying and uncomfortable.

“It has flared up before and I’m not taking anything for granted, we’ll have to see how it goes.

“It’s another day ticked off though and obviously closer to St Mary’s.”

Tomorrow Benali faces visiting five London grounds in the space of one day before heading for home, arriving at St Mary’s during half-time of Saturday’s game against Newcastle.