Benali: ‘Excitement is starting to build for next weekend’s south coast derby’

Former Southampton defender Franny Benali writes that excitement is starting to build ahead of the upcoming south coast derby against Portsmouth at St Mary's. Benali participated in the inaugural Ryval Cup golf tournament during the international break, raising funds for the Saints Foundation against Portsmouth's community charity.

Benali expresses concern that uncertainty surrounding Tonda Eckert is lingering over preparations ahead of the fixture. He also praises young defender Zach Abbott's ambition after meeting him, noting Abbott's desire to break into the lineup alongside competition from Nathan Wood.