Non-league side change names by deed poll to Messi, Moore, Pele, Gazza…

But this isn't just another oil-rich oligarch takeover. In a world football first brokered by bookmaker Paddy Power, every player in the first team squad of Farnborough has changed their name by deed poll to that of a legendary footballer in their respective position - meaning the most star-studded team ever assembled will be kicking off against the might of Chelmsford City on Saturday.

Instead of a line-up including the likes of Balls, Inns and Treacher, the yellow kit of Hampshire's finest will be adorned with all-time great names like Gascoigne, Best, Pelé, Banks and Beckenbauer.

Additionally the manager of Farnborough FC, formerly known as Spencer Day, has become Boro’s very own 'Special One' by changing his name to Chelsea favourite José Mourinho.

The partnership between Paddy Power and Farnborough FC came just in time for 'Boro'.

Having been trapped in administration since April, the club's future looked more precarious than Pardew’s future job prospects.

The deal with Paddy Power sees them become title sponsors of the club, which will include kit branding and stadium sponsorship.

José Mourinho (previously Spencer Day) said: “Over the summer it looked touch and go whether we’d even start the season, but now we’ve got by far the greatest team the world has ever seen.

"Although it’s not all good news, Pelé and Maradona have almost come to blows over who gets to wear the number 10.”

Paddy Power, of Paddy Power, added: “We hear you, Farnborough FC. Not only does our support help secure the future of a great club but, in the modern world of sky-high money for season tickets, fans can forget the Nou Camp and now need only to travel to Paddy Power Park to see some of the world’s greatest in action."

He continues, "We’re waiting with bated breath for their opener on Saturday to see how Farnborough’s rivals deal with a frontline led by Pelé and Messi – and a defence marshalled by our captain Hansen.

"Hopefully Zidane keeps a cool head in midfield and doesn't end up in our Ball of Shame season review!"