Eckert explains Southampton star’s absence and praises players after big win over QPR

Southampton boss Tonda Eckert hopes Caspar Jander’s latest injury setback is not serious after the midfielder missed the 4-1 win over QPR.

Jander started last weekend’s 3-2 victory at West Ham but suffered another muscular problem in training this week.

“It’s a little muscular one, as he picked that one up in training on Tuesday,” Eckert said.

“Obviously not great, but I hope it’s not too bad.”

The Saints boss was also delighted with his side’s performance against QPR as goals from Kuryu Matsuki, Cameron Bragg, Keven Schlotterbeck and Welington secured victory.

“It’s never an easy game to play,” Eckert said.

“I think QPR prepares very well for what they come up against – they always give you some challenges, especially in the way they attack.

“We knew this, we knew it was going to be tough today to find answers to everything they do, but we had a good start into the game and obviously a big decision towards the end of the first half, when we were done celebrating to see the goal has not been given.

“Then you need to regulate your emotions because you can imagine players coming in angry at half time but you need to move on.”

Eckert said tactical changes at the break helped Southampton take control of the game.

“We had some adjustments at half time in the way we pressed and I think we played a very good second half,” he added.

“It was not an easy game, but I’m happy with the performance.”