Southampton boss Tonda Eckert denies opting for a rotation policy against Fulham after a week-long rest following the Championship win last week.
Up next, Southampton face Fulham in the 5th round of the FA Cup before continuing their promotion charge. While the Saints are fully focused on securing a Premier League return, this Cup knockout is special to them.
Ever since dropping to the Championship, Southampton have rarely faced Premier League clubs. Not long ago, such games were a weekly affair, and now, they have become exceedingly rare.
After Southampton’s trip to Anfield for the EFL Cup 3rd round game, it’s the inaugural time the Saints visit a Top Flight side. Naturally, fans and club staff are super-excited as they head to Craven Cottage for the first Premier League clash in 2026.
Ahead of his first Premier League showdown, Southampton boss Tonda Eckert seemed thrilled. While the manager had enforced a heavy rotation policy en route to the 5th FA Cup round, he ruled out any experimentation against Fulham.
As quoted by the Daily Echo, Eckert stood clear in his plans not to include academy or backup players against Fulham. Eckert declined the possibility, mentioning, “There was no midweek game for us, so we’ve had a whole week to prepare. So I think that the Fulham game will look a little bit different.”
When asked about resting the mainstay stars ahead of a gruelling schedule, Eckert hinted otherwise. The Saints boss said: “The good thing is now we had a week which already feels like a break, even though it’s only a week. We’re in a very good condition.”
Eckert will opt against rotation policy against Fulham
It’s been well documented that a competitive Championship schedule has led Tonda Eckert to rotate the starting lineup at times. Notably, Southampton’s Cup progress has seen them change personnel more often than not.
For instance, the Saints rested multiple starters in their inaugural FA campaign win over Doncaster this season. Interestingly, the club’s rotation plans didn’t change while taking on Leicester either.
Fresh from a comeback win over the Foxes in the Championship, Southampton went without star players like Léo Scienza, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and still completed the double over Leicester in a 3-0 win.
However, the scenario is far different this time. Entering the FA Cup clash on the back of a 9-game unbeaten streak, Southampton face a challenging Premier League opponent as they look to extend that run.
But what goes in Southampton’s favour is that they head to Craven Cottage well-rested and fresh compared to the hosts. While Fulham featured in a matchday clash as recent as yesterday, Saints have had a full week of rest following a comfortable win over Sheffield Wednesday.
As boss Tonda Eckert mentioned, the 7-day gap has proved to be as vital as a short break itself. The squad has recovered well in recent days, and Southampton are expected to field their best possible XI against Fulham.
While Fulham enter the FA Cup tie on the back of a defeat to West Ham, Southampton will want to crush their morale further with a victory that helps them progress to the next round.
What could be Southampton’s best XI Vs Fulham?
Daniel Peretz(GK): Since arriving on loan, Peretz has been fundamental in improving Southampton’s trajectory. With an impressive spell of just 10 goals conceded in as many games, Peretz should start against Fulham.
Ryan Manning(LB): The experienced full-back captained Southampton in their last FA Cup win over Leicester. Manning is having his best spell at St. Mary’s and is an absolute starter for Eckert’s side.
Jack Stephens(CB): While the veteran hasn’t featured in Cup games all season, Southampton need the Club Captain in the crucial knockout against Fulham. Stephens has been reliable recently and might lead the Saints’ backline at Craven Cottage.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis(CB): Harwood-Bellis has been the best Southampton defender this season. While he hasn’t featured in Cup games often, he would be put to use against PL opponent Fulham.
James Bree(RB): Coming on the back of a blistering February, Bree is in the form of his life. The full-back had played a part in the FA Cup win over Leicester with a goal and will start for Southampton as usual.
Caspar Jander(DM): While Jander has been at the centre stage of transfer drama recently, Southampton are altogether a different side with him in midfield. After being rested against Sheffield Wednesday, Jander is expected to return to the starting XI Vs Fulham.
Shea Charles(DM): Charles’s return after his mid-season hamstring woes has bettered Southampton overall. Though he hasn’t played in the FA Cup this season, his heroics against Liverpool in the EFL Cup will put him in contention for a start here.
Léo Scienza(LM): Enough can’t be said for Scienza’s importance in crucial games. The attacker is coming on the back of a MOTM-worthy February spell, and fans would want to see him deliver his magic against Fulham.
Fin Azaz(AM): After Armstrong’s departure, Azaz is Southampton’s top scorer and highest goal contributor as well. While the forward hasn’t always been at his best, his presence significantly improves Southampton’s chances against Fulham.
Tom Fellows(RM): Fellows’ role has been reduced with Matsuki’s rise recently. However, the midfielder would be in contention to start in the Cup clash if Tonda Eckert wants to have some fresh legs in the game.
Ross Stewart(CF): Stewart is expected to feature against Fulham after returning in time for the tie. With the forward emerging as a vital goal source in recent months, fans will be eager to see him get significant minutes.
