Sources: Tonda Eckert edges closer to Southampton agreement
Tonda Eckert has emerged as the leading contender to take the permanent job at Southampton after his successful interim spell.
Southampton beat Leicester City 3-0 last time out, piling the pressure on Marti Cifuentes, in what was their fourth consecutive win under the interim boss.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Eckert is now the clear favourite to take over permanently at St Mary’s, despite other managers having been considering since their decision to part ways with Will Still.
Football Insider revealed on 3 November that Southampton were considering Russell Martin for a potential return to the south coast after his exit from Rangers.
However, Eckert has overseen four wins from four games and seen his side score 13 goals in that time, with fans now calling for him to be handed the job.
Tonda Eckert leading race for Southampton manager job
Football Insider revealed on 8 November that Eckert is in the running for the Southampton job despite the more experienced options on their shortlist.
Meanwhile, Matt Le Tissier told Football Insider that Eckert will be given time by Southampton as no permanent appointment is imminent as things stand.
However, given the positive turn of form since his arrival on the scene, there is a growing demand for the interim manager’s role to be made permanent.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Yeah, he’s in the driving seat for this job. What an impact he’s had.
“Four wins in a row and four impressive wins as well. Lots of goals scored as well. They destroyed Leicester midweek, destroyed Charlton on the weekend before that as well.
“Eckert’s come in at a difficult time and really turned things around.
“He’s making a real big impression on the Southampton fans as well who are really happy with the style of football.
“Eckert’s done everything that’s been asked of him and more probably, winning games, winning in style so if he continues that it seems inevitable that he will get the job on a permanent basis.”
Southampton considering Eckert alternatives
Despite Eckert emerging as the new front-runner for the Southampton job, a number of alternatives are still on their radar, with concerns lingering.
Le Tissier told Football Insider that Eckert’s lack of experience is a concern for Southampton, and suggested they could instead look to a more tried and tested option.
Gary O’Neil was linked with the Southampton job, but his connections to Portsmouth have cast doubts over his appointment due to fears of fan backlash.
Meanwhile, the potential re-appointment of Martin is now considered unlikely, despite him having been linked with a quick return to Championship football.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 4 November that Martin is unlikely to return to Southampton despite being under consideration.
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