Former Southampton manager Will Still is ready to take on a new managerial role.

Southampton’s Season of Two Halves and the Changing Fortunes in the Dugout

The 2025/26 campaign for Southampton can quite clearly be divided into two contrasting phases, each telling a very different story about the club’s trajectory. The Saints experienced a dramatic turnaround in fortunes over the course of the season, particularly following a managerial change that ultimately reshaped their campaign.

During the second half of the season, under the guidance of Tonda Eckert, Southampton surged up the EFL Championship table in impressive fashion. Their form was nothing short of remarkable, as they went on a lengthy unbeaten run stretching from mid-January through to the conclusion of the regular league season. This period of consistency and resilience saw them re-establish themselves as serious contenders for promotion.

In fact, the only defeat they suffered during that run came not in the league but in cup competition, when they faced Manchester City in the semi-finals of the FA Cup on April 25th. Even in that loss, Southampton delivered an admirable performance, taking the lead and pushing one of the strongest sides in Europe all the way before narrowly falling short. The display further underlined the progress they had made under Eckert’s leadership.

Early Expectations Under Will Still Fall Short

However, the campaign had begun under very different circumstances. At the start of the season, there was considerable optimism surrounding Southampton, particularly due to the appointment of Will Still. The highly regarded young coach had built a growing reputation across European football, and his arrival on the South Coast was viewed as a bold and forward-thinking move by the club.

Still’s appointment had been confirmed even before the conclusion of the 2024/25 Premier League season, signaling Southampton’s intent to begin their rebuilding process early following relegation. At just 33 years of age, he was already attracting widespread attention due to his achievements abroad, particularly in France and Belgium.

A significant part of his story had captured public interest during his time with Stade de Reims, where it became widely known that he had yet to complete the necessary coaching badges required for management at that level. Despite that, he had still managed to achieve notable success, further enhancing his reputation as one of the brightest young minds in football.

Given his track record, expectations were understandably high as he took charge of Southampton. Many anticipated that he would quickly implement his ideas and guide the team back toward promotion contention. However, the reality proved to be far more challenging.

A Difficult Spell Leads to Early Dismissal

Still’s first experience of English football management ultimately turned into a disappointing chapter. Southampton struggled to shake off the effects of relegation, and their performances failed to meet expectations during the early months of the season. Results were inconsistent, and confidence within the squad appeared to waver.

The situation reached a breaking point following a 2-0 defeat to Preston North End on November 1st. That loss left Southampton with just two wins from their opening 13 Championship fixtures, a run that fell well below the standards expected of a club aiming for an immediate return to the Premier League.

As a result, the club made the decision to part ways with Still, bringing his tenure to an abrupt end. What had initially been seen as an exciting and progressive appointment quickly turned into a cautionary tale about the challenges of adapting to a new league and environment.

Tonda Eckert Sparks a Revival

Following Still’s departure, Southampton turned to an internal solution by promoting Tonda Eckert, who had only been appointed as the club’s Under-21s head coach in July 2025. Initially given the role on an interim basis, Eckert quickly made a positive impression, leading to his eventual confirmation as the permanent manager.

Under his guidance, Southampton underwent a significant transformation. The team began to show greater cohesion, discipline, and belief, which translated into improved results on the pitch. Their unbeaten run in the latter stages of the season propelled them into the play-off positions, giving them a realistic chance of securing promotion.

Southampton are now set to face Middlesbrough in the play-off semi-finals, with the tie to be decided over two legs. The stakes could hardly be higher, as they aim to complete an extraordinary turnaround and secure an immediate return to the Premier League.

Will Still Linked With FC Lorient Opportunity

While Southampton focus on their promotion push, attention has also turned back to Will Still and his next career move. Despite his difficult spell in England, the Belgian-born coach remains highly regarded, and he has already been linked with a new managerial opportunity.

According to reports from French outlet L’Équipe, Still is among the leading candidates to take charge of FC Lorient ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Ligue 1 side are preparing for a change in leadership, creating an opening that could provide Still with a chance to rebuild his reputation.

This vacancy has arisen following the announcement that current manager Olivier Pantaloni will leave the club at the end of the campaign. His departure comes after a breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy, particularly regarding the terms of a proposed new contract.

Pantaloni himself spoke openly about the situation, explaining that although he had embraced the challenge of managing the club, there had been underlying doubts from the board about his appointment. Those tensions ultimately led to the decision for both parties to part ways.

Lorient’s Stability and Progress Under Pantaloni

During his time in charge, Pantaloni had overseen a successful period for FC Lorient. He guided the team back to Ligue 1 at the first attempt by winning the Ligue 2 title with 71 points, demonstrating his ability to lead a promotion campaign effectively.

In the current season, Lorient have continued to perform well, sitting in ninth place with two matches remaining. Their campaign has been characterized by stability and steady progress, marking a solid return to the top flight following their promotion.

With Pantaloni set to depart, the club is now evaluating potential successors, and Still has emerged as a preferred candidate. Another name reportedly under consideration is Wouter Vrancken, who is currently in charge of Sint-Truiden.

The decision will be a crucial one for Lorient as they look to build on their recent success and continue their development in Ligue 1. For Still, the opportunity could represent a fresh start and a chance to return to a league where he has previously enjoyed success.

A Challenging Season for the Still Family

The 2025/26 Championship season has proven to be a difficult one not only for Will Still but also for his brother, Edward Still. Like his sibling, Edward has also faced setbacks in English football during the same campaign.

Edward Still was in charge of Watford but was dismissed following a heavy 4-0 defeat to Coventry City on the final day of the season at Vicarage Road. His departure added to what has been a turbulent year for the family in the Championship.

Watford, under the ownership of Gino Pozzo, have developed a reputation for frequent managerial changes. Edward Still’s exit continued that trend, as he became the latest in a line of coaches to leave the club.

He followed in the footsteps of previous managers such as Paulo Pezzolano and Javi Gracia, both of whom had also departed earlier in the season. The revolving door at Watford has made it a challenging environment for managers to establish long-term stability.

Reflection and Uncertain Futures

Will Still has since spoken publicly about his time at Southampton, offering his own perspective on why his tenure did not succeed. While he has provided explanations for the struggles he faced, opinions among Southampton supporters remain divided regarding his assessment.

Some fans have expressed sympathy, acknowledging the difficulties of managing a club in transition, while others believe that more could have been achieved given the resources available. The debate continues, particularly in light of the team’s resurgence under Eckert.

As Southampton stand potentially just 270 minutes away from securing promotion through the play-offs, the contrast between the two managerial periods has become even more striking. What once seemed like a lost season has been transformed into one filled with hope and possibility.

For Will Still, the next step in his career will be crucial. A move to FC Lorient could offer the platform he needs to re-establish himself and demonstrate his capabilities once again. Meanwhile, Southampton will remain focused on completing their remarkable turnaround and returning to the Premier League at the earliest opportunity.

Four Middlesbrough players are uncertain for the play-off semi-final versus Southampton due to injury

Middlesbrough are entering one of the most defining weeks of their season as they prepare for a high-stakes Championship play-off semi-final clash with Southampton. With promotion to the Premier League within touching distance, every detail matters—especially the fitness of key players. The two-legged tie begins at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, before the decisive return fixture at St Mary’s on Tuesday, May 12. Awaiting the winner at Wembley will be either Millwall or Hull City, making the stakes even higher for both clubs.

Michael Carrick’s side, however, face a tough challenge against a Southampton team that has surged into form at the perfect time. Backed by the financial cushion of parachute payments following relegation, the Saints have rebuilt momentum after a slow start and managerial reshuffle. They now arrive at the play-offs riding an impressive 19-game unbeaten streak in the league, underlining the scale of the task facing Boro.

Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney goes off injured(Image: PA)

Against that backdrop, Middlesbrough will be desperate to have as many players available as possible. Injuries played a decisive role in their failed promotion push in 2023, when absences to key figures such as Jonny Howson and a less-than-fully-fit Chuba Akpom proved costly. This time around, they will hope history does not repeat itself. Here’s a detailed look at the players currently facing fitness concerns heading into the semi-finals.

Alfie Jones: Defensive Leader Facing Race Against Time

Alfie Jones had emerged as one of Middlesbrough’s standout performers during the first half of the campaign, even entering conversations for Player of the Season. His consistency and composure at the back were instrumental in Boro’s strong defensive displays. However, his momentum was abruptly halted during the festive period when he suffered a serious ankle injury.

The issue proved significant enough to require surgery, ruling him out for an extended spell. Initial projections suggested a potential return at the start of May, which would have coincided perfectly with the play-off schedule. However, recent updates from head coach Kim Hellberg indicate that Jones is still far from match fitness.

While Hellberg has not completely ruled out a return before the end of the season, he admitted that such a scenario appears increasingly unlikely. That leaves Middlesbrough relying on alternative defensive options. Fortunately, they are not short in that department, with Dael Fry, Adilson Malanda, and Luke Ayling all competing for starting roles. George Edmundson also remains available as cover, although he has fallen somewhat out of favour in recent weeks.

Alex Bangura: Minor Setback Raises Availability Questions

Left-back Alex Bangura is another player whose fitness remains uncertain heading into the semi-final. The Sierra Leone international was notably absent from the matchday squad during the recent trip to Wrexham, raising concerns among supporters.

Following that game, Hellberg clarified that Bangura’s absence was linked to complications stemming from a recent injury he sustained against Swansea City over the Easter period. Although he managed to return to action in subsequent matches against Sheffield Wednesday and Watford, his involvement has been carefully managed.

In fact, Bangura was withdrawn at half-time during the Watford fixture, a decision that Hellberg later explained was pre-planned. The intention had been for him to share playing time with Matt Targett, who himself has endured a season disrupted by fitness issues.

Encouragingly, Bangura’s latest problem is not believed to be serious. Hellberg described it as a minor concern and expressed hope that the defender would return to training during the week. Even so, his condition will need to be closely monitored, as any lingering discomfort could impact his ability to feature in both legs of the semi-final.

Hayden Hackney: Key Midfielder’s Fitness Looms Large

Perhaps the most significant injury concern for Middlesbrough revolves around Hayden Hackney. The influential midfielder has been one of the team’s standout performers this season and was even named Championship Player of the Season. His absence has been keenly felt over the past several weeks.

Hackney has missed Boro’s last eight matches after suffering a calf injury during a draw with Bristol City. What initially seemed like a manageable issue has turned into a more complicated recovery process than anticipated. The player himself recently admitted that his rehabilitation has not progressed as quickly as hoped.

Hellberg has echoed that uncertainty, stating that it remains difficult to predict exactly when Hackney will be ready to return. In a bid to gain clarity, the club reportedly consulted three separate medical specialists following the injury, but each provided a different prognosis. That has left the situation somewhat ambiguous.

Since then, Hackney has been working diligently behind the scenes, focusing on recovery and gradually building his fitness levels. The club remains optimistic that he could rejoin training in time to play some role in the play-offs. However, even if he does return, questions remain over his sharpness and whether he can immediately perform at his usual high level after such a lengthy absence.

Alan Browne: Precaution Taken After Training Issue

Alan Browne is another player whose involvement is not yet guaranteed. The midfielder was forced off at half-time during the match against Wrexham due to a minor issue that had surfaced in training earlier in the week.

Hellberg described the problem as small but potentially problematic if not managed carefully. With the opportunity also presenting itself to give Riley McGree valuable minutes as he returned from injury, the decision was made to withdraw Browne as a precaution.

The expectation is that Browne will be able to resume training during the week leading up to the semi-final. His availability could prove particularly important given Hackney’s uncertain status, as Middlesbrough will need experienced options in midfield to cope with Southampton’s intensity.

Recently Returning Players Provide Timely Boost

While several players remain doubts, Middlesbrough have also received some positive news on the injury front. A number of key figures have recently returned to action, offering a timely boost ahead of the play-offs.

Riley McGree, Morgan Whittaker, Leo Castledine, and Sammy Silvera have all made comebacks from injury in recent weeks. Their minutes have been carefully managed as they work their way back to full fitness.

Whittaker, in particular, has impressed since his return, showing sharpness and attacking threat. However, the coaching staff have deliberately limited his playing time in recent matches to ensure he reaches peak condition for the play-offs.

McGree’s 45-minute appearance at Wrexham was seen as a crucial step in his recovery, providing him with valuable match fitness. Meanwhile, Castledine and Silvera have featured less frequently, although both remain capable of making meaningful contributions off the bench. Notably, Castledine has been seen with heavy strapping on his left leg, indicating that he is still managing a physical issue.

Matt Targett Playing Through Persistent Issue

Another player worth noting is Matt Targett, who has been dealing with a minor but persistent problem for much of the season. Despite this, the Newcastle United loanee has continued to perform at a high level and is expected to play a role against Southampton.

His experience and reliability could prove crucial, particularly given the uncertainties surrounding Bangura. Interestingly, the upcoming fixture carries added significance for Targett, as he prepares to face the club where he began his professional career.

Final Preparations and Injury Management Key to Success

As Middlesbrough finalize their preparations for Saturday’s first leg, maintaining player fitness will be a top priority. With several key individuals either returning from injury or still battling to prove their readiness, careful management will be essential.

Hellberg and his staff will be hoping for a smooth week on the training ground, free from any additional setbacks. In matches of this magnitude, even small absences can have a major impact.

If Middlesbrough can navigate their injury concerns and field a strong, balanced side, they will give themselves a fighting chance against a formidable Southampton team. With Wembley just one step away, the importance of having their best players available cannot be overstated.