Southampton to Make Five Lineup Changes Ahead of Blackburn Rovers Clash Southampton manager Tonda Eckert is expected to make five key lineup adjustments for tonight’s home match against Blackburn Rovers, as the Saints aim to close the gap on Ipswich Town in the Sky Bet Championship. The decision comes after Finn Azaz sustained a knock during Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Derby County, raising concerns about his availability for the high-stakes encounter. Azaz, who has been a vital contributor for the Saints this season, may be rested to allow his injury to heal, with the team prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term gains. The tactical reshuffle will see several players step into new roles, with Eckert likely to focus on balancing defensive solidity with attacking creativity. Goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, who has been instrumental in stabilizing the Saints’ backline, is expected to remain in goal. His performance in recent matches, including a clean sheet against Derby, has solidified his position as the team’s first-choice keeper. Peretz’s ability to organize the defense will be crucial as the Saints face a formidable Blackburn side that has gone five matches unbeaten since their March loss to Oxford United. On the right flank, James Bree is set to retain his place as the Saints’ right back. The English full-back has been a standout performer since returning from his loan at Charlton, combining defensive discipline with overlapping runs that threaten the opposition’s flank. Bree’s contributions against Derby, including a crucial interception that denied Blackburn an equalizer, have earned him a place in the starting XI. His presence will be vital in neutralizing Blackburn’s attacking threats, particularly their pacey wingers.#southampton #tonda_eckert #daniel_peretz #james_bree #finn_azaz
Southampton vs Blackburn Rovers: Championship Stats and Head-to-Head Analysis Southampton and Blackburn Rovers are set to face off in a Championship clash, with historical data and recent form providing key insights into the matchup. The teams have a storied history in their encounters, with Southampton maintaining a strong record at home against Blackburn. Over the past two decades, Southampton have only suffered a single defeat in their last 20 home league games against Blackburn Rovers, a 1-2 loss in November 2001 during the Premier League era. This dominance at St. Mary’s Stadium underscores Southampton’s ability to secure results against their rivals, though Blackburn have shown resilience in recent years. Blackburn Rovers are aiming to complete their third-ever league double over Southampton, a feat they previously achieved during the 1938-39 and 2001-02 seasons. The 2-1 victory in October 2026 has reignited hopes for the Lancashire side, as they seek to replicate their historical success. However, the challenge remains significant, given Southampton’s recent performance against midweek opponents. Under manager Tonda Eckert, Southampton have not lost a single midweek league game in 10 appearances, with eight wins and two draws. This consistency has been a key factor in their climb up the Championship table, as they look to build momentum ahead of crucial fixtures. Conversely, Blackburn Rovers have struggled in midweek matches, securing only two wins in their last 13 such games. Their record has been particularly poor in 2026, with four losses in five midweek encounters. This inconsistency has hampered their ability to capitalize on key moments, especially when facing teams with strong home records like Southampton.#southampton #tonda_eckert #blackburn_rovers #st_mary_s_stadium #finn_azaz
Saints head coach Tonda Eckert anticipates that at least one of Ross Stewart and Leo Scienza will be fit to face Oxford United in the upcoming Championship clash. The Saints, currently hosting the 22nd-placed team, aim to correct a 2-1 defeat to Oxford on Boxing Day. Both Stewart and Scienza missed the previous two matches due to muscle tightness and a groin injury, respectively. Eckert expressed optimism that one of the players will be available for the game, stating, "The questions are going to be for two players and they've both been on the pitch today. I'm quite positive that at least one of them is going to be available." Welington and Jay Robinson returned to training this week, but they were not mentioned during Eckert's press conference, suggesting the match is likely too soon for their inclusion. The coach emphasized confidence in his squad's energy, citing recent games against Fulham, West Brom, Coventry, and Norwich. "I have no doubt, because I think we've always been able to turn it on for games. I think it will be exactly the same for this one," Eckert added. The Saints' focus remains on addressing their recent loss and securing a positive result against Oxford United.#tonda_eckert #oxford_united #saints #ross_stewart #leo_scienza
Oxford's Bloomfield praises 'incredible job' done by Eckert Oxford United manager Matt Bloomfield has commended Saints head coach Tonda Eckert for his "incredible job" since taking over at St Mary's. The 33-year-old coach has led Southampton from 21st place in the Championship to a position inside the top six, with eight games remaining in the season. Eckert now appears set to guide the team into the play-offs, with promotion to the Premier League within reach. Bloomfield, who has saved Oxford United from the brink of relegation and left them just one point from safety, praised Eckert ahead of their upcoming match against Southampton. "They are a very, very good team. One of, if not the, in-form team in the league. It’s going to be a very stern test for us," he said. Bloomfield highlighted the quality of Southampton's squad, noting the presence of players who have competed in the Premier League and were signed for significant fees. "They’ve got some fantastic players, lots that have played in the Premier League, been recruited for millions and are very well coached," he added. The manager emphasized the challenge posed by Southampton, stating that Oxford must be at their best to secure a result. "We know we’re up against a very tough team tomorrow, so we’re going to have to be at our best if we’re going to take something from the game," he said. Bloomfield also acknowledged Eckert’s ability to manage an elite squad, calling his work "a fantastic job." "They’ve got such an elite group of players for this league, but he’s done a fantastic job," he said. Bloomfield took charge of Oxford United in January after Southampton’s visit to Kassam Stadium, and has earned 16 points from his 12 Championship matches.#southampton #st_mary_s #tonda_eckert #matt_bloomfield #oxford_united
Southampton Set for Crucial Clash Against West Brom as Key Players Return Southampton are preparing for their second match in a busy week as they travel to West Bromwich Albion’s Hawthorns stadium for a Championship encounter. This game marks their first visit to the venue since the 2024 play-offs, adding extra significance to the fixture. The Saints, managed by Tonda Eckert, are looking to capitalize on their recent form and maintain their push for a playoff spot, while West Brom, currently in dire need of points, aim to escape the relegation zone. West Brom, having gone through three managers this season, face a critical challenge as they seek to climb out of the relegation threat. The match could prove pivotal for both teams, with Southampton potentially edging closer to the play-off positions following Wrexham’s unexpected loss to Hull City. For the Saints, the game represents an opportunity to strengthen their position in the table, especially with the potential to close the gap on the playoff spots. The predicted lineup for Southampton reflects the manager’s strategic choices and the form of key players. Goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, signed in January, has been a standout performer despite occasional distribution errors, becoming a vital asset for Eckert’s playoff campaign. On the right flank, James Bree has returned to form after his loan spell at Charlton, offering stability and energy. The center-back pairing of Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jack Stephens has been a key strength, with Harwood-Bellis leading the defense after captaining the team to a surprise 1-0 victory over Fulham. Stephens, returning from a rest, is expected to anchor the defense alongside Harwood-Bellis, forming a formidable partnership.#southampton #west_bromwich_albion #tonda_eckert #daniel_peretz #james_bree
Eckert: Players in Good Form Ahead of West Brom Clash Saints' head coach Tonda Eckert confirmed his squad is in good shape ahead of the club's midweek fixture against West Bromwich Albion. The team will face the Baggies at The Hawthorns on Wednesday night following a return to league action after their FA Cup victory over Fulham on Sunday. Eckert highlighted that key players Jack Stephens and Shea Charles are set to rejoin the squad, aligning with his previous statements about their availability. The Saints will embark on a challenging doubleheader in the Midlands, starting with the trip to West Brom and followed by a clash against league leaders Coventry City on Saturday. Eckert emphasized that the team remains focused on maintaining momentum from their recent cup success. However, the squad will be without long-term absentee Mads Roerslev, who is sidelined for the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on an Achilles injury. Welington and Jay Robinson are also unlikely to return for the match at The Hawthorns. Eckert also addressed the disciplinary situation, noting that both Flynn Downes and James Bree are one yellow card away from a two-game suspension due to their caution counts. The duo currently sits on nine cautions for the season, putting them in a precarious position heading into the midweek game. The team will return to St Mary's for a home fixture against Norwich City on Wednesday, 18th March, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45pm GMT. Ticket details for the match were provided, with adult tickets starting at £25 and junior tickets at £15. All previously purchased tickets for the original date remain valid for the rescheduled game.#the_hawthorns #west_bromwich_albion #tonda_eckert #st_mary_s #coventry_city
