Southampton's Tonda Eckert explains Aston Villa friendly, seeks more from players

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·22 September 2026

Tonda Eckert has explained his decision to play a friendly this week.

According to Daily Echo, the Southampton head coach said he still wants more from his players physically.

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He made that point while outlining the choice to arrange the game.

The friendly will be against Aston Villa.

His remarks centred on raising physical levels within the squad.

Source: Daily Echo

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