Southampton manager Tonda Eckert must protect a formidable Championship home record when his side host a surging Bristol City team at St Mary’s this afternoon.
The hosts enter the fixture following a commanding 3-1 win over Swansea City on Tuesday. Striker Cyle Larin extended his scoring run to six goals across all competitions during that victory.
Nullifying The Transition Threat
Bristol City arrive on a three-match winning streak under manager Michael Skubala. The visitors currently boast an unbeaten away record. Eckert outlined his tactical priorities via southamptonfc.com, stressing the need to retain possession to stop counter-attacks.
“[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,” Eckert said.
Managing The Squad Fitness
Both squads boast almost entirely clean bills of health. Caspar Jander remains the only long-term absentee for the hosts. The midfielder is continuing his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Bristol City travel without Irish defender Luke McNally. The visitors will also provide a return for Dom Ballard. The former academy striker is looking to add to his two league goals this season.
Southampton travel to Wrexham next Saturday as they navigate a busy September schedule.
