Two football stars from Fulham FC paid a surprise to a fan currently living at a veterans' care home in Surbiton.

Midfielder Kevin McDonald and defender Cyrus Christie dropped in to meet die-hard Fulham fan Stephen Vause, 32, at The Royal Star and Garter Home in Surbiton yesterday (September 17).

The visit was arranged by staff at the renowned care home, and took Stephen totally by surprise.

The Surbiton resident was presented with a Fulham shirt signed by the squad, and a signed book featuring press cuttings from Fulham matches over the years.

He was also promised two tickets to a match of his choice this season.

The players were meanwhile taken to the Physiotherapy room where Stephen regularly works out.

"I had no idea they were going to turn up. I’m feeling very grateful," Stephen said after the visit.

"It was amazing," he added.

Stephen was 19 and on his first tour in Iraq, serving with the 4th Battalion The Rifles, when he suffered brain injuries in a mortar explosion near Basra.

The attack left him severely disabled, and he is currently being cared for at the specialist veterans' home in Surbiton.

Scotland international Mr McDonald spoke of his admiration of the Home and Stephen in particular.

"Every day we get a lot of kicks that cause a bit of pain, but then we meet guys who put their lives on the line for their country.

"It puts everything into perspective to meet people like this. When you consider what Stephen’s been through it’s an honour to meet him."

Mr Christie’s brother was in the Army for 10 years and served in Afghanistan.

The Irish international said it was “humbling” to meet Stephen.

"He’s a true inspiration," he added.