Southampton are high of the Championship type desk since November. That is a truth and it’s an impressive one. But it additionally asks an uncomfortable query.
The numbers inform two tales
Since Tonda Eckert took cost, Saints have taken extra factors than another aspect. They have averaged 1.81 factors per recreation and that’s promotion type. The 5-0 win over QPR confirmed how scientific they are often when every part clicks.
They are unbeaten in seven league matches, and simply 4 factors off the play-offs. The crew look organised and assured. Eckert mentioned after the QPR win that maintaining a clear sheet was essential as a result of it exhibits progress, and he was proper.
But take a look at the place Southampton have been in November. They have been twenty first and solely three factors above the relegation zone. Under Will Still they averaged 0.92 factors per recreation and that’s 42-point tempo throughout a season.
That is just not unfortunate type. That is underperformance.
Context issues in soccer
Eckert deserves reward and he deserves persistence. But this surge additionally highlights how badly the early months have been dealt with. Saints have been tipped for promotion and the squad was sturdy, but they drifted.
Other managers are additionally having fun with sturdy runs. Michael Carrick is steadying Manchester United. Chris Wilder has Sheffield United organised and harmful. Philippe Clement has Norwich taking part in with readability.
Form spikes can occur in soccer as a result of momentum is highly effective. The key query is sustainability. Is this a brand new stage or a correction?
Eckert has clearly improved construction and depth. The crew defend set-pieces higher, they usually management video games for longer spells. Young players have come through, they usually look fearless somewhat than overawed.
Academy graduates have been trusted and that issues at Southampton. That connection between youth and first crew feels stronger once more. It feels genuine.
So sure, the numbers are glorious. Yes, Saints have been the most effective aspect within the division over this stretch. But it additionally exhibits how far beneath par the crew have been earlier within the marketing campaign.
Two truths can exist without delay.
Tonda Eckert has achieved effectively and the crew are performing effectively under his teaching. The trajectory is upward and the assumption is returning. That is what issues most now.
