As the Championship play-off semi-final first leg against Middlesbrough approaches, Southampton manager Tonda Eckert has delivered a timely boost to the Saints faithful, expressing optimism that key duo Jack Stephens and Kuryu Matsuki could be back in action for the crucial clash on Saturday.

Captain Jack Stephens has been sidelined since last month, while midfielder Kuryu Matsuki missed the last two fixtures, but Eckert struck a positive tone when discussing their potential returns. "I'm quite positive that we will have a squad at full strength for the game that's coming up," he said, offering hope that the spine of his team could be restored just in time for the high-stakes encounter.

The news doesn't stop there. Midfielder Flynn Downes is also in contention to feature after serving a suspension, and Eckert is eager to harness his renewed energy. "It definitely doesn't hurt to have him back," the boss noted. "Flynn, in the weeks before the suspension, had only been getting better and better game after game. He'll be as fresh as you can potentially be at this part of the season, and I think he'll play a big role for us."

With the play-offs representing a do-or-die opportunity for promotion to the Premier League, having a near-full squad—including a reinvigorated Downes—could prove pivotal as Southampton look to seize the initiative against Middlesbrough. For fans eyeing the action, this is the kind of squad depth that fuels belief in a memorable run.