Saints Boss Tonda Eckert speaks on ‘remarkable’ mentality as Southampton players scrap days off

SAINTS head coach Tonda Eckert praised his players for opting to come in on their days off to boost recovery during the Championship run-in.

The boss has said that “less is more” as he encouraged his players to take time to switch off from football during a packed season schedule.

But Saints stars are coming into Staplewood for recovery treatment on days off as they look to manage midweek games until the end of the season.

Eckert’s side came from behind to beat Swansea City 2-1 on Saturday, recording their eighth successive win in all competitions since mid-March.

They return to action at home against Bristol City on Tuesday, before the FA Cup semi-final on Saturday, and two decisive league fixtures next week.

“At this part of the season, we are not to rest any players,” insisted Eckert.

“I’ve asked the medical department about it, because I only know how it’s been over the last months. I have no idea how it was over the last years.

“But I think it has changed a lot. The determination that you find in the players to finish strong this season is, I think, quite remarkable.

“They come in on a Sunday for recovery when they could spend time with their family, still to make sure that their body is right to go again.

“I think it speaks for the determination of the team, and it’s why you can play games like we did against Swansea on Saturday.”

Saints are fourth in the Championship table, just one point behind second-placed Ipswich Town, who have a game in hand, and Millwall in third.

Winning all three remaining fixtures will mean Saints need both Ipswich and Millwall to drop points in at least one more outing to finish second.

However, Bristol City thrashed Saints 3-1 at Ashton Gate earlier this season, and ended the club’s record 25-game unbeaten run in February 2024.

“It’s the first time I hear it, so thanks for throwing that at me, but I’ve heard about a lot of curses that come with achievements on the way,” said Eckert.

“We’ve been able to get over them on the last few occasions, and I hope that we’ll be able to do the same on Tuesday. They are a very solid team.

“Obviously, they have unbelievable experience on the sideline.”