Predicted lineup as Tonda Eckert picks first team of 2026/27 against Colchester United | OneFootball

Southampton open their 2026/27 Carabao Cup campaign at Colchester on Saturday. With the FA’s Spygate investigation still unresolved, Tonda Eckert readies his first selection after a pre-season of one defeat in five. According to Sainstmarching.com, he is likely to go strong in the first round.

Goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, signed after a successful loan in last season’s second half, should start. The 25-year-old will hope for a steady outing before next Saturday’s Watford opener.

At right-back James Bree, newly contracted to 2029, is the clear pick. Vice-captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis should partner Jack Stephens, with Ryan Manning at left-back after eight goals and six assists last season.

Flynn Downes is set to anchor midfield after the 21-game league unbeaten finish to 2025/26. With Shea Charles heading to Fulham and Caspar Jander missing most of pre-season, Cam Bragg is tipped to get the nod.

On the flanks, Kuryu Matsuki could edge Tom Fellows after a stronger pre-season, the 22-year-old built on last year’s breakout. New signing Lewis Dobbin hit three goals and one assist in his first five games and should start, with Finn Azaz unlikely after missing key preparation. Fan favourite Leo Scienza ended pre-season with a decisive goal and is among the first picked when fit.

Up front it is a close call. Ben Brereton Diaz led the line against SC Preussen Munster and Eckert seems keen to hand him another chance. The Chilean has endured a tough spell on the south coast, perhaps this is the reset he needs.

Source: Sainstmarching.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”