Home » Football » EFL Championship » Southampton F.C.

Why Cyle Larin should not walk straight back into Southampton’s XI

Cyle Larin has seven league goals and an injury to shake off. Tonda Eckert says he is "quite positive" he is back for QPR on Saturday.

By Paul Blake · Saints Marching

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 1:01 AM

Key Things to Know

Paul Blake argues that Cyle Larin should start on the bench for Southampton against QPR.
Manager Tonda Eckert expects Larin to be available for Saturday's match after recovering from an injury.
The writer believes Lewis Dobbin deserves another start following an impressive goal-scoring display against West Ham.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Paul Blake argues that Southampton forward Cyle Larin should start on the bench against Queens Park Rangers following an injury layoff. While manager Tonda Eckert expressed positivity about Larin returning on Saturday, Blake believes starting him immediately would be a mistake given QPR's strong defensive record and Larin's dip in form across his last three appearances.

The article highlights Lewis Dobbin's strong performance and goal against West Ham as justification for him maintaining his starting spot. Blake suggests utilizing Larin as a second-half substitute to protect his fitness ahead of a midweek clash against West Bromwich Albion.

Read the full article on Saints Marching

Why Cyle Larin should not walk straight back into Southampton’s XI

More Southampton Fc News

Never Miss a Sports Update