Ryan's classy act for young fan and Maty the dog

Mat Ryan is so popular at Premier League club Brighton and Hove Albion, fans are even naming their pet dogs after the Caltex Socceroos keeper.

One of Ryan's biggest supporters is youngster Jax.

So when Jax’s family allowed the him to name their new pet dog, it was no surprise when he decided to call it ‘Maty’.

The incredible gesture struck a chord with the 27-year-old gloveman, who popped around to visit Jax and his namesake puppy.

And as you can see from Ryan’s Instagram post, Jax was chuffed his football hero stopped in for a visit.

It’s not the first time the Aussie shot-stopper has made a young Brighton fans day.

Ryan often presents his jersey to young supporters following matches, like he did in games against Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City in recent seasons.

So it’s no surprise why Seagulls fans have taken the Caltex Socceroos keeper into their hearts in less than three seasons at the club.

Ryan, who has kept two clean sheets in six EPL games this season, comes up against Chelsea this weekend at Stamford Bridge.

AUSSIES ABROAD: Degenek finds the net in Serbia, Rogic scores on first start
AUSSIES ABROAD: Aaron Mooy's new role in first PL start for Brighton