Why Caspar Jander’s return could be as important as Cyle Larin’s arrival for Southampton.

Southampton could receive two boosts when Championship football resumes after the international break, with Cyle Larin expected back from injury and Caspar Jander also hoping to be available. While the striker’s comeback will attract attention, the German midfielder’s return could be just as valuable for Tonda Eckert.

The Saints have endured a frustrating run of injuries. Larin has missed their last four Championship matches with a hamstring problem, depriving Eckert of a forward who has scored seven league goals. His absence has been noticeable as Southampton have created chances without converting them.

The dropped points against West Bromwich Albion and Preston North End were disappointing. Southampton drew 1-1 with the Baggies before losing 1-0 to the division’s bottom club. Larin might have converted some of those opportunities.

His expected return against Derby County after the break is welcome news. His goalscoring record makes him an important option when Southampton need someone to finish the chances created by their attacking players.

Southampton v Bolton Wanderers – Sky Bet Championship 2026/27 | Matt Watson/GettyImages

Flynn Downes has also had fitness problems, although he completed 90 minutes in each of the two matches immediately before the break. His availability helps Eckert, but Jander could bring something different.

Jander’s difficult start to the season

The 23-year-old has endured a difficult build-up to his second campaign on the south coast. A hamstring injury disrupted his pre-season and ruled him out of Southampton’s first eight Championship matches. He therefore had little opportunity to build momentum or establish himself early in the season.

Jander eventually returned, making an 18-minute appearance during last month’s heated South Coast Derby. However, his involvement has remained limited. He has made only three Championship appearances and has not featured since the thrilling 3-2 victory away to West Ham United.

There is hope he will be ready when Southampton face Derby after the international break. Eckert has named Jander as another player who could return to contention, giving the head coach an extra option.

His comeback should not be considered a minor development. James Ward-Prowse and Downes have provided reliable alternatives, but Jander offers a more energetic, forward-thinking presence. His ability to cover ground, compete physically and drive possession towards goal could give Southampton another dimension.

Why Jander could make such a difference

Jander impressed during his previous campaign with the Saints. Southampton paid £10.4 million to sign him from Nurnberg, and he looked comfortable after arriving from the Bundesliga. His performances suggested the club had recruited a midfielder capable of making an impact.

One standout display came against Manchester City in the FA Cup. Jander handled the occasion impressively, winning eight duels and completing his passes accurately, with only three attempts failing to reach their target. Football talent scout Jacek Kulig praised him afterwards, describing him as a player of Premier League standard.

That assessment reflected the qualities Jander had shown. He is willing to compete for possession, but also looks to move the team forward rather than simply keep the ball circulating. After joining Southampton last summer, he described himself as a player who gives everything on the pitch.

His work rate stood out in the 3-2 win over West Ham at the London Stadium. Jander covered 11.5 kilometres during the 90 minutes, demonstrating the energy he can bring to Eckert’s midfield. The display underlined why his return could be valuable to Southampton’s promotion challenge.

Jander also recorded a top speed of 36 kilometres per hour, the highest figure among Championship midfielders this season, according to the information highlighted after his West Ham performance. That pace, combined with his willingness to press and compete in duels, makes him a distinctive option.

Downes and Ward-Prowse have both been dependable, but their strengths are different. They are generally more measured midfielders, whereas Jander can provide greater pace and carry the team forward quickly.

That difference could matter against opponents who defend deep or when Southampton need to raise the tempo. Jander’s movement and intensity may help them win possession higher up the pitch and turn defensive work into attacking opportunities.

A timely return for Eckert

Southampton have won all three Championship matches in which Jander has featured this season. That does not prove he would have changed the results against West Brom or Preston, but it highlights the team’s record with him involved.

Had he been available for those matches, his energy and forward movement might have helped Southampton find a breakthrough. The same could be said of Larin, whose goals might have made a difference in front of goal.

Eckert will hope both players can return against Derby and help his side respond. Larin offers a goalscoring threat, while Jander could restore dynamism and intensity to midfield. Their availability would give Southampton greater balance as they continue their promotion push.