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Southampton defender’s future takes fresh twist as Keven Schlotterbeck injury opens door

This frozen out Southampton defender could make a return to the first-team with the extent of Keven Schlotterbeck's shoulder injury now revealed.

By Kelan Sarson · Saints Marching

Published: Friday, 13 November 2026 at 11:05 AM

Key Things to Know

Keven Schlotterbeck's shoulder injury could open a pathway back into Southampton's lineup for sidelined defender Nathan Wood.
Schlotterbeck faces at least six weeks on the sidelines following a dislocated shoulder sustained against Preston North End.
Manager Tonda Eckert confirmed Nathan Wood was omitted from the Preston squad purely as a selection choice.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Southampton centre-back Keven Schlotterbeck will be sidelined for at least six weeks after suffering a dislocated shoulder during a 1-0 defeat at Preston North End. Saints Marching reports that the 29-year-old's absence could provide an unexpected opportunity for frozen-out defender Nathan Wood to revive his St. Mary's career under manager Tonda Eckert.

Wood was omitted from the squad against Preston due to selection choices following internal talks, having not featured since September. Writer Kelan Sarson argues that Eckert must now choose between Wood and youngster Zach Abbott to partner Jack Stephens ahead of their upcoming match against Derby County.

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