Daniel Peretz isn't the only notable pre-season absentee for Southampton | OneFootball

Daniel Peretz watched Southampton’s pre-season match at Eastleigh from the stands, wearing wrist support that, according to Sainstmarching.com, was only precautionary. Finn Azaz was also absent with a shin issue.

With several weeks until the Championship begins, both are thought to be on track for the Watford opener. Peretz, 26 and formerly of Bayern Munich, kept nine clean sheets in 26 appearances last season.

The recent conclusion of the 2026 World Cup will have delayed some returns to training. Yukinari Sugawara played for Japan and appears to be on the move this summer.

Cyle Larin is currently away after scoring two goals for Canada at the tournament. Tonda Eckert said he will return at the end of July, and after the 3-1 win at Eastleigh he indicated they would assess whether Larin is ready for the EFL Cup tie against Colchester United on the seventh of August. It could be touch and go for Watford.

Larin delivered eight Championship goals in 949 minutes last term after a goalless 157 minutes at Feyenoord, so sharpness may not be an issue. He and Peretz did not feature at Eastleigh, but both will be relied upon when competitive football resumes next month.

Source: Sainstmarching.com