Southampton manager Tonda Eckert aims to extend an unbeaten Championship home record when his side host Bristol City and former academy striker Dom Ballard.
The St Mary’s outfit claimed a comfortable 3-1 win over Swansea City on Tuesday. Cyle Larin continued his exceptional start to the campaign by netting his fifth league goal.
Eckert must now set up his defence to neutralise Ballard. The forward has scored two away goals since joining a Bristol City side that arrives on a three-match winning streak.
Stifling Dangerous Quick Transitions
Maintaining structural discipline will be vital for the hosts. Eckert is well aware of the counter-attacking threat posed by Michael Skubala’s visiting team.
The Saints boss told southamptonfc.com: “[Bristol City] come with three wins on the bounce, they have been very good in some phases of the game, particularly the way they transition so it’ll be a tough game for us. It depends a lot how good we are on the ball, and how precise and sharp we are.”
Jander Remains Unavailable For Selection
Midfielder Caspar Jander remains sidelined as he recovers from a pre-season quad injury. Eckert needs others to dictate midfield control while the German completes his rehabilitation.
Speaking to the Daily Echo, Eckert confirmed the 23-year-old will miss Saturday’s fixture.
“For Caspar it will be too early tomorrow,” Eckert said. “We’re going to push, so hopefully it will be some minutes against Wrexham. We have to delay it a little bit but I think he’s on his way now.”
The manager confirmed his squad emerged unscathed from the midweek victory, leaving him with strong options to defend their home record.
