Eckert and Scienza recognised for Saints' February rise
Southampton’s fruitful February has been recognised by the EFL with two nominations in the Sky Bet Championship’s monthly awards.
Head coach Tonda Eckert is up for Manager of the Month after masterminding a run of four wins and a draw, taking 13 points from a possible 15 to propel Saints into play-off contention.
Cyle Larin’s debut goal secured a 1-0 victory over Watford at St Mary’s before a memorable comeback victory at Leicester, as Saints won a match from three goals down for the first time in the club’s history.
Charlton were the only team to prevent Eckert’s side from taking three points in a 1-1 draw at St Mary’s, but eight goals in two games saw Saints brush aside QPR (5-0) and Sheffield Wednesday (3-1).
Leo Scienza’s performances have also been recognised with a nomination for Player of the Month, with the EFL highlighting that the Brazilian played an integral part in nine of Saints’ 14 league goals in February.
Scienza was officially credited with one goal and four assists, having started all five matches, but his ability to attract defenders and create space for others helped Saints create many more opportunities.
The winger faces competition for the award from Femi Azeez (Millwall), Sydie Peck (Sheffield United) and Haji Wright (Coventry), while Eckert is up against Philippe Clement (Norwich), Frank Lampard (Coventry) and Alex Neil (Millwall) for the manager prize.
Both awards will be decided by an EFL judging panel, with the winners to be announced on Friday.
Saints will return to St Mary's after four games on the road with a home clash against Norwich on Wednesday 18th March (7.45pm GMT). Tickets start from £25 for Adults and £15 for Juniors. All previously purchased tickets for the original date remain valid.
