Every word Eckert said on Peretz arrival, Downs departure, formation talk and Doncaster test

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has spoken at length ahead of the club’s FA Cup third-round clash with League One side Doncaster Rovers, addressing squad changes, injuries, form, tactical flexibility and the importance of the competition. Here is a fully paraphrased version of his press conference comments, capturing the substance and tone of everything he said before the trip to South Yorkshire.

Eckert began by discussing the arrival of goalkeeper Daniel Peretz and what he believes the new signing adds to the squad. He explained that Peretz comes from an elite footballing environment, having been part of a major European club where opportunities were limited due to the presence of an established world-class number one. Eckert acknowledged that being understudy to a goalkeeper of Manuel Neuer’s stature makes regular game time extremely difficult, but stressed that this should not reflect negatively on Peretz’s ability.

According to the Southampton boss, Peretz is a high-quality, well-rounded goalkeeper who is comfortable in all aspects of the game. Eckert described him as a complete profile and made it clear the club is delighted to have him on board. Despite limited minutes this season, Eckert said the coaching staff have studied his performances closely and are satisfied with his readiness. From what they have seen, even when Peretz lacked match rhythm, his performances remained strong.

When asked whether Peretz would immediately take over as first choice, Eckert was measured. He said the intention is for the goalkeeper to get minutes following his January arrival, but also pointed out that Southampton already have experienced senior goalkeepers within the squad. Rather than framing it as a straight replacement, Eckert emphasised that Peretz simply adds further quality and competition in an important position.

Attention then turned to Damion Downs, who has returned to Germany. Eckert admitted that Downs’ spell at Southampton was difficult to summarise succinctly. He described the forward as both an excellent person and a talented footballer, but acknowledged that circumstances did not align as hoped. Eckert explained that moving to a new environment can be challenging and that everyone involved would have liked Downs’ time at the club to unfold differently.

Ultimately, the decision was made because Downs was not receiving the minutes he needed or wanted. Eckert said January presented the right opportunity for the player to restart his career elsewhere, with a move to Hamburg offering a clearer pathway to regular football. He revealed that Downs had already trained with his new club and was expected to feature quickly, reiterating his belief in the player’s ability despite the difficult spell.

Eckert was then asked about Ross Stewart and how the striker has responded after returning to action following his injury. The Southampton boss expressed satisfaction at Stewart’s progress, noting that the first half of the season had been particularly tough for him. He highlighted Stewart’s unique profile, which differs from other forwards such as Adam Armstrong and Cameron Archer, and said the club remains confident in what he can bring.

Stewart’s brief cameo at Middlesbrough was described as carefully planned, with Eckert stating that the intention had always been to give him around ten minutes. The response was positive, both physically and mentally, and Eckert suggested that Stewart’s involvement will now be gradually increased.

On the subject of confidence, Eckert was clear that the best way for Stewart to rediscover his best form is through game time. He explained that trust in one’s body and belief in one’s ability come from repetition and minutes on the pitch. He praised Stewart’s character, describing him as optimistic, energetic and mentally strong, and said that sustained involvement in matches will naturally help him reach his maximum level again.

When questioned about the need to sign another striker, Eckert avoided committing to any specific position. Instead, he framed recruitment as a broader squad evaluation. He confirmed the club is monitoring the market but stressed that any addition must be the right fit. Eckert said decisions will be made on an individual basis, weighing opportunities carefully while maintaining confidence in the players already at the club.

The conversation then shifted to Southampton’s recent run of form, with six games without a win increasing scrutiny. Eckert acknowledged the pressure that comes with ambition, stating that the club is fully aware results must improve quickly if they want to compete for their objectives this season. However, he also pointed out that campaigns are rarely straightforward and that setbacks are part of the journey.

He described the current situation as a test of character, emphasising the importance of responding positively to dips in form. Eckert made it clear that the focus is firmly on returning to winning ways rather than dwelling on recent disappointments.

Addressing the defeat at Middlesbrough, Eckert confirmed the squad has already moved on. While he admitted the result was frustrating for everyone, including supporters, he stressed that it can no longer be changed. The emphasis is now on the FA Cup tie and upcoming home fixtures, with the aim of shifting momentum back in Southampton’s favour.

Eckert was asked whether ongoing debates about formations frustrate him. He responded calmly, saying such discussions are natural in football. He acknowledged that everyone associated with the club wants success and will naturally have their own views. Rather than being annoyed, Eckert sees it as part of the game.

He explained that the squad’s situation is beginning to improve as players return from injury, providing greater tactical flexibility. The return of natural full-backs Elias Jelert and Mads Roerslev was highlighted as particularly important, given their absence over the past two months. Eckert stressed that tactical systems should always be shaped by the players available, not rigid ideas.

With more options emerging, he believes Southampton can vary their approach more effectively. While this does not automatically mean a switch in formation, Eckert said it allows the team to be less predictable and adapt more easily from game to game.

On unpredictability, Eckert acknowledged the need to strike a balance between maintaining structure and avoiding being too easy to read. He said this balance must be assessed ahead of every match and welcomed the fact that the squad’s improving health gives him more tools to achieve it.

Turning to the FA Cup, Eckert expressed genuine affection for cup competitions. He noted Southampton’s history in the tournament and described the current anniversary as a special context for the club. He praised the knockout nature of the cup, explaining that it offers immediate consequences and clear stakes, which he finds appealing.

Eckert said Southampton must be fully prepared and approach the match with intensity, calling the FA Cup a beautiful competition that deserves respect.

Finally, he shared his assessment of Doncaster Rovers. Eckert described them as an energetic side whose performances have often been better than their results suggest. He highlighted their midfield energy, willingness to attack the box and reliance on crosses as key threats.

Stopping deliveries into the box, particularly from wide areas and set-pieces, was identified as a major focus. Eckert believes Southampton have improved defensively in recent weeks and pointed out that, aside from the Middlesbrough match, the team has conceded little from open play. Maintaining consistency in defending crosses, he concluded, will be crucial to navigating the challenge Doncaster present.