Southampton are one of a number of Championship clubs currently looking for a new boss as the latest international break comes to an end.
After fifteen games this season, Southampton is in a very disappointing seventeenth place. Their return to the championship went far from as planned, leading to the early dismissal of Will Still.
The highly regarded coach was removed from his position after a 2-0 defeat Preston North End early this month.
Tonda Eckert jumped over from the U21s to temporarily lead the team. He has since overseen victories at QPR and at home against Sheffield Wednesday, steadying the ship at St. Mary’s and buying the hierarchy time in their hunt for a new head coach.
However, the international break is now nearing an end and eyes are on this weekend’s match with Charlton Athletic. Contacts with external candidates have been extremely quiet and it feels as if Eckert is on track to become a full-time boss.
Tonda Eckert in pole position for Southampton track?
Southampton fans didn’t have long to get to know Eckert before he was thrust into the spotlight. The German was only appointed boss of the reserves in the summer and came from Genoa, where he was assistant manager.
The Saints U21s appearance marks the first time he has taken charge in the dugout, having previously only worked as an assistant or analyst. He has never been a first-team manager; not surprising since he is only 32.
However, reports recently emerged stating that his position in the race for the permanent head coach job at Southampton had been significantly strengthened. Claims were clarified by declaring that he would remain interim for the time being.
Despite this, there has been a major lack of administrative ties over the past week. While the likes of Middlesbrough, Norwich City and Swansea City are actively whittling down shortlists and targeting top candidates, nothing similar has happened on the south coast.
Although the Southampton hierarchy are keen to take their time, the silence would indicate that Eckert is in a very good place to take on the permanent job.
A huge gamble by Southampton to stay with Eckert
If – as seems almost inevitable – Eckert gets the permanent job at Southampton, it would be a huge gamble for owners Sport Republic and the wider club hierarchy.
From their previous Premier League levels, the Saints have been steadily declining. They may have bounced back and forth between the Premier League and the Championship over the past three years, but they are now at a low point in their recent history, which is why fingers are being pointed at ownership.
While he is a smart coach, Eckert’s appointment is unlikely to be an inspiration to the fan base. They will be behind him – there is no doubt about that – but betting on someone so inexperienced to lead the revival of their season is a big risk.
Time will tell if new candidates emerge, but as the ties grow colder, it seems Eckert’s appointment is becoming more and more likely by the day.
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