Eckert provides latest update on Southampton duo ahead of QPR clash

Southampton boss Tonda Eckert is hopeful at least one of Cyle Larin and Flynn Downes will return from injury for Saturday’s clash with QPR.

Both players missed last weekend’s 3-2 win at West Ham, while Downes was also absent for the goalless draw with Bolton a fortnight ago.

“I’m very positive that at least one of the two is going to make it back in the matchday squad tomorrow,” Eckert said.

The Southampton boss has also welcomed a second successive full week of training ahead of a busy run of fixtures.

“It doesn’t happen so often to have a full week,” he said.

“We’ve had this twice now, we’ve got some good sessions in. I’m very happy with the training week. The challenge is to put that on the pitch tomorrow.”

Saints travel to West Brom on Tuesday before another away game at Preston next Saturday, but Eckert insists all focus remains on QPR.

“Obviously you do have a look at what comes up, but at the same time I think what’s important is we focus on tomorrow and we do everything to win that game, whatever it takes,” he said.

“Then we have a reset after and see what the rest of the week brings, but there is not going to be any compromise in what we do tomorrow.”