Despite Southampton’s disastrous early-season form under Will Still, the club now sits just four points shy of the final Championship playoff spot. Since Still’s dismissal, three successive victories have halted the slide and re-energised their promotion push as they aim to return to the Premier League at the first attempt.
While Still’s tenure unravelled quickly, his interim replacement, Tonda Eckert, is looking increasingly like a figure capable of long-term success. The 32-year-old, previously in charge of the Saints’ U21 side, has stepped in impressively and is emerging as a front-runner for the permanent managerial role.
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Eckert has done almost everything possible to strengthen his case. The German coach has overseen three straight league wins, including an emphatic 5-1 triumph over Charlton Athletic and former Saints boss Nathan Jones. His turnaround has not gone unnoticed, with Fabrizio Romano reporting via GIVEMESPORT that internal discussions are ongoing and that Eckert has a genuine shot at being appointed permanently.
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Russell Martin, meanwhile, is likely to take a break after his own struggles with Rangers. Eckert, however, appears energised by the opportunity. His coaching career has largely consisted of assistant and youth-team roles, but his recent success mirrors Martin’s early steps. When Martin took over MK Dons at age 33, he used that chance as a springboard, eventually guiding Southampton to promotion with 26 wins and 87 goals in 46 games.
After Martin’s successful 2023-24 season, he was praised for implementing exciting, progressive football — a style Eckert is beginning to replicate. Some rumours even hinted at Martin potentially returning, but appointing Eckert might be the smarter move, as he appears to be “Martin 2.0” for a refreshed Southampton side.
The 5-1 performance against Charlton showcased that familiar high-possession, attacking identity, with Adam Armstrong scoring twice and Southampton finishing with 59% of the ball. Eckert is also committed to promoting young talent — something that aligns with Southampton’s long-term vision and mirrors what Martin achieved with prospects like Tyler Dibling.
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