Saints will be 'full strength' for play-offs - Eckert

Southampton face Middlesbrough in the first leg of their play-off semi-final on Saturday [Getty Images]

Southampton boss Tonda Eckert hopes his squad will be at "full strength" for their upcoming Championship play-off matches.

The Saints head coach said that he is "quite positive" defender Jack Stephens and midfielder Kuryu Matsuki will be available alongside a full squad for their games against Middlesbrough and a potential play-off final.

Club captain Stephens has not been available since April's clash against Bristol City, and when asked if Matsuki had returned to training, Eckert briefly responded: "yeah."

The 23-year-old Japan youth international - who signed in the summer - has missed out on the past two matches against Ipswich Town and Preston North End.

Also returning to the side following a three-match ban is midfielder Flynn Downes who missed Saints' FA Cup semi-final and their final two league matches.

Eckert said that he expects the 27-year-old to make a big impact for his side in these upcoming games.

"I still have a very clear opinion on the suspension and I've said my bit about that," Eckert told BBC Radio Solent.

"But that's gone now and I'm sure he'll be fully there and play a big part in what's coming, it definitely doesn't hurt (to have him back).

"I think Flynn, in the weeks before the suspension, had only been getting better and better game after game and obviously 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."

Southampton face Boro away at the Riverside on Saturday before welcoming them to St Mary's on Tuesday for the second leg.