Tonda Eckert delivers update fans wanted on Léo Scienza before Arsenal tie | OneFootball

Tonda Eckert says Léo Scienza is back in full training and looking positive, though the Brazilian may only feature from the bench when Southampton face Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-final at St Mary's tomorrow.

According to Sainstmarching.com, Eckert told the press that the forward's fitness is good after hard work over the international break, and he trained with his team-mates today.

Scienza limped off at West Bromwich Albion and, though it first looked minor, his return has taken time. Full involvement may come too soon. If he is passed fit, he could face compatriots Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli.

Eckert has not shied away from bold selections. Cameron Archer's start against Oxford United drew criticism, and Kuryu Matsuki was drafted in for the trip to Portsmouth. Another surprise tomorrow is possible.

Scienza is likelier to be used from the bench, with a start possible at Wrexham on Tuesday. The Championship six-pointer is Southampton's biggest game of the season so far, and a win would lift them back into the top six with a game in hand on most rivals.

He has 14 goal involvements for Southampton, and his creativity has been missed in March. Saints produced only 49 shots, ranking 13th in the league, and the link to his absence is hard to ignore. He will be needed for the run-in, for his craft, goals and knack for drawing free-kicks.

Source: Sainstmarching.com