'Eckert repaying faith as Saints eye play-offs'

When Southampton appointed Tonda Eckert, there was a clear belief inside the club about the direction they wanted to go.

Placing such responsibility in the hands of a 31-year-old coach was a bold decision, but it was one made with conviction - and 21 games on from replacing Will Still, that faith is being repaid.

Across those 21 matches Saints have reshaped their season.

Only one side has taken more points in that period and no team has scored more goals.

This is not a short-term bounce - it is sustained, measurable progress built on clarity, structure and belief.

A seven-game unbeaten run, five wins and two draws, has carried Saints from 15th and 10 points outside the play-offs to seventh, now just four points off sixth place.

That turnaround has not happened by chance. It has been driven by consistency, renewed togetherness and the building of a genuine spine through the team.

January's recruitment played its part too.

Daniel Peretz arrived from Bayern Munich to strengthen the goalkeeping department, while Cyle Larin added presence and experience at the top end of the pitch.

James Bree returned from his loan at right-back, and the partnership of Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jack Stephens has brought stability in defence.

In midfield, Flynn Downes looks back to his best, dictating games and providing control.

What I have enjoyed most is the spirit, something I felt was missing earlier in the season.

Now there is intensity, unity and a willingness to work for one another that is clear for all to see.

The press is coordinated, the defensive shape more assured, and when Saints score you see a group that truly believes.

Reverting to a back four in January was another pivotal call, since then the balance feels right.

Now come away tests at Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom and Coventry. Navigate them well and Saints will be the team nobody wants to see in the play-offs.

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