Southampton manager Toda Ekert is confident he has a near-full squad for the upcoming matches.

Toda Ekert updated Southampton's squad ahead of their play-off semi-final away game against Middlesbrough in response to questions about the return of captain Jack Stephens, Kuki Matsuki, and Flynn Towns.  

Speaking about Jack Stephens, who has been sidelined since the April game against Bristol City, Toda Ekert expressed optimism. He said, "I am very confident that we will have a near-full squad for the upcoming game. In addition, Kuki Matsuki has also returned to training."  

With Flynn Towns expected to return to the squad after being suspended for the match against Swansea, Toda Ekert emphasized the midfielder's importance. He stated, "Yes, his return is definitely a big positive. I think Flynn Towns' form improved steadily in the weeks leading up to the suspension, getting better with each game. At this stage, he's theoretically at his best, and I believe he will be a significant asset to the team."  

Toda Ekert also discussed his overall approach to the lineup, saying, "We haven't planned too much in advance, not only for future games, but also for the past month. We've just focused on each game and tackled it in the way we believe best utilizes the team's strengths."  

"The goal in every game is to maximize our chances of getting three points. Sometimes we will rotate our players, but we don't decide which players to use for which game weeks in advance. No matter what, we will always field the strongest lineup that we believe is most likely to win."  

Image source: Internet/Southampton official website