Southampton are now facing the threat of losing one of their most important players amid interest from the Premier League and from around Europe.
Eckert stunned by “crazy” Southampton comeback
When Southampton found themselves 3-0 down against Leicester City, some fans may have been getting some uncomfortable flashbacks – especially when home fans chanted for nine.
This is not the Leicester of old, however. This is a side without a permanent manager. A side who entered on the cusp of the relegation zone and off the back of a six-point deduction. So, even 3-0 down, the Saints were still in a game.
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The Foxes are now only outside of the relegation zone on goal difference.
For a long time, Ross Stewart’s effort just after the hour mark looked destined to be nothing more than a consolation. But Leicester’s collapse was simply delayed until the final 10 minutes.
Three rapid-fire goals from Jack Stephens, Ryan Manning and then Shea Charles soon produced the impossible to compound the Foxes’ misery and signal Southampton joy.
Speaking to reporters at full-time, Tonda Eckert revealed what he did at half-time to spark the comeback, saying: “I didn’t want to do too much talking to the players about structure. I wanted to leave that to the staff.
“For me, it was more about dealing with the emotions. There’s a lot flying around. I give full compliments to the players. It is tough to find the right words because there are so many thoughts still buzzing around.
“I don’t have an explanation for what happened during the first half. We were just a step late to everything and were poor in possession and out of possession. But we bounced back. It was a crazy night.”
The victory has taken the Saints closer to the Championship’s playoff positions, but even that may not be enough to keep hold of one of their most important players.
Premier League clubs plotting Jander move
According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Premier League clubs are now plotting moves to sign Caspar Jander from Southampton this summer. The midfielder is reportedly ready to take his next career step and has plenty of options on the table.
Whilst the Premier League sides remain unnamed, Plettenberg revealed interest from Ajax, RB Leipzig and Stuttgart, who could decide to match Southampton’s €15-25m (£13-22m) price tag.
Jander only joined Southampton last summer, but has already caught the eye of some top clubs. At just 22 years old, his future is undoubtedly bright and that may deal Southampton a frustrating blow if they miss out on promotion this season.
