CASSIUS is fearless in the tackle but could be forgiven for staying off the pitch altogether.

The six-year-old from Bournemouth has the blood disorder haemophilia A and yet he has already been scouted by Southampton’s football academy.

If he is injured his blood cannot clot properly, but the midfielder barely gives it a second thought.

“I just get on with it,” said the polite Moordown St John’s schoolboy before running back outside with his ball.

His grandfather Jonny’s own career with AFC Bournemouth came to an end after three months thanks to the disease.

Now 61, he fractured and dislocated his kneecap in 1966 and blood complications stopped him ever playing a professional game.

He was so worried he did not want Cassius to play at first but is now a big fan – not least because Cassius has also been to Saturday training days at Dean Court.

“Cassius has a moderate form of haemophilia and the treatment is so much better now – I don’t see any reason now why a haemophiliac can’t became a professional footballer,” said Jonny, from Moordown.

“He has no fear. He is tough as old boots.”

A Southampton scout saw Cassius kicking a ball around aged three and invited him to the academy aged five when he was again spotted playing at Littledown Juniors.

He’s had treatment at Poole Hospital for a few nasty injuries but none from football.

Mum Hannah Lister, 32, a PA, said: “When he had his first game I was welling up, I was so proud. I don’t worry – I would absolutely love it if he became a professional.

“He is big and strong and brilliant in defence. Last time at Southampton training there were about 30 kids taking turns to beat him and only two or three got round him.”

Cassius’s week could be private lessons on a Monday, Southampton training on a Tuesday, Cherries on a Saturday, and Redhill Rangers on a Sunday.

He said: “I feel really exited when I go because I want to see if I can score a goal.”

He followed in his mum’s partner’s footsteps and became a Liverpool fan – his hero is Steven Gerrard.