Southampton will win Championship this season - Downes

Southampton midfielder Flynn Downes has expressed a strong determination to win the Championship this season, despite the club's recent setbacks. The team was stripped of their play-offs spot last term due to a scandal dubbed "Spygate," and head coach Tonda Eckert is awaiting a punishment from the Football Association for his involvement in spying on rival clubs.

However, Downes, who has been a key player since joining Southampton on loan from West Ham in 2023, insists that the team is coming into the new campaign with a point to prove. With a four-point deduction starting the season, Downes says the group's mentality is focused on winning the league. The 27-year-old claims that the players and staff have united together to right the wrongs and is confident in their strength this season.

Southampton has been in Germany for pre-season training and has already won games against Eintracht Braunschweig and Preussen Munster. Their Carabao Cup campaign kicks off against League Two side Colchester United on Saturday, before facing Watford in their league opener the following weekend. Downes feels in the best shape of his career and attributes his improved performance to the coaching and development from manager Tonda Eckert.