Le Tissier exclusive: Scienza’s seven blessing, Ward-Prowse return and Eckert wait

Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier revealed that Brazilian winger Leo Scienza personally asked for his blessing before taking the club's iconic number seven shirt this season. Scienza, who wore number 13 last campaign, took over the vacant shirt following the departure of Joe Aribo. Le Tissier praised Scienza's attitude, bravery, and willingness to embrace the responsibility associated with the historic squad number.

Le Tissier also discussed James Ward-Prowse's return to St Mary's and the ongoing disciplinary uncertainty surrounding manager Tonda Eckert. Eckert recently attended an FA hearing regarding misconduct charges stemming from training ground spying incidents last season, with Southampton currently awaiting the final verdict on potential individual sanctions.