Toda Ekert: The team never plays for a draw; we will do everything we can to win.

Toda Ekert says Southampton will have only one goal in their Championship play-off semi-final first leg away against Middlesbrough: to win. Two years ago, Southampton drew 0-0 away to West Bromwich Albion in the first leg of the play-off, but won 3-1 at St. Mary's Stadium to advance.  

Southampton now face Middlesbrough in the second leg at home, and many believe a draw at the Riverside Stadium would be the ideal result. However, Toda Ekert emphasizes that the team will not be aiming for a draw.  

Toda Ekert said: "This is not how we approach the game, and it never has been. We have never aimed for a draw all season, so we will go to the away game to win. We will do everything we can to win the game, and then we will see how things turn out."  

Nine players in the current Southampton squad participated in the 2023/24 playoff title run. Toda Ekert believes this experience will play a crucial role in key stages.  

He continued, "If you've ever done it once, I think you'll remember the emotions and feelings you had. Whether it's walking into a game, stepping onto the court, especially when the pressure comes, these experiences will help you rather than have a negative impact."  

"But it's not just them. I think there are other players on the team who, although they haven't experienced the playoffs, have been involved in other important moments in their careers, and they will also be able to help us in the upcoming games."  

In the early days of Toda Ekert's tenure, Southampton suffered a 0-4 away defeat to Middlesbrough in early January. However, the manager believes that loss will not affect the upcoming semi-final, as the team is currently on a 19-game unbeaten run in the league.  

Toda Ekert said: "I think we are completely different now compared to the beginning of January. This team has made great progress, and at this stage of the season, we will maintain the same attitude towards every game. No matter who the opponent is, we will not dwell too much on the past."  

"At this stage of the season, what happened in previous games is no longer important. I think it's time to start a new chapter, and we must be fully prepared for it."  

“I think their style of play is very clear and their strengths are easy to see. If they get into their rhythm and play at their own pace, they will be a very good team in some aspects. But at the same time, we also come with good form from the past few weeks or even months. Ultimately, the key is to bring our strengths to the pitch, which is what we have been doing for a long time.”  

Image source: Internet/Southampton official website