Tonda Eckert could unleash Southampton’s new Tino Livramento at Lincoln | OneFootball

Tonda Eckert could involve Nottingham Forest loanee Zach Abbott at Lincoln, and he has confirmed James Ward-Prowse will start the lunchtime fixture. According to Sainstmarching.com, the manager also said the young defender will travel with the squad after the midweek 1-1 draw at Birmingham City.

The clubs meet in league action for the first time in 65 years at Sincil Bank. Newly promoted Lincoln have four points from their opening matches, one more than Saints, who are carrying a points deduction. The visitors lost their first away game at Watford.

Ward-Prowse impressed from the bench at St Andrew's on Tuesday. Eckert was unequivocal, saying, 'He will start tomorrow.' He also framed the midfielder's return as a short-term lift after the disappointment of Shea Charles' exit.

Remarkably, Ward-Prowse has never faced Lincoln in a league match. He will look to make an impression and strengthen his claim for a regular place.

Eckert could turn to Abbott during the game, hinting the defender might be his own Tino Livramento. Livramento broke through at 18, making 28 Premier League appearances in 2021/22 with six clean sheets and two goal contributions.

Abbott, 20, featured 10 times for Forest across the Premier League and Europa League last season, recording two European clean sheets. Eckert suggested the youngster could make an immediate impact, though he may not start against a tall, direct Lincoln side.

Source: Sainstmarching.com

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