Southampton are top of the Championship form table since November. That is a fact and it is an impressive one. But it also asks an uncomfortable question.
The numbers tell two stories
Since Tonda Eckert took charge, Saints have taken more points than any other side. They have averaged 1.81 points per game and that is promotion form. The 5-0 win over QPR showed how clinical they can be when everything clicks.
They are unbeaten in seven league matches, and just four points off the play-offs. The team look organised and confident. Eckert said after the QPR win that keeping a clean sheet was important because it shows growth, and he was right.
But look at where Southampton were in November. They were 21st and only three points above the relegation zone. Under Will Still they averaged 0.92 points per game and that is 42-point pace across a season.
That is not unlucky form. That is underperformance.
Context matters in football
Eckert deserves praise and he deserves patience. But this surge also highlights how badly the early months were handled. Saints were tipped for promotion and the squad was strong, yet they drifted.
Other managers are also enjoying strong runs. Michael Carrick is steadying Manchester United. Chris Wilder has Sheffield United organised and dangerous. Philippe Clement has Norwich playing with clarity.
Form spikes can happen in football because momentum is powerful. The key question is sustainability. Is this a new level or a correction?
Eckert has clearly improved structure and intensity. The team defend set-pieces better, and they control games for longer spells. Young players have come through, and they look fearless rather than overawed.
Academy graduates have been trusted and that matters at Southampton. That connection between youth and first team feels stronger again. It feels authentic.
So yes, the numbers are excellent. Yes, Saints have been the best side in the division over this stretch. But it also shows how far below par the team were earlier in the campaign.
Two truths can exist at once.
Tonda Eckert has done well and the team are performing well under his coaching. The trajectory is upward and the belief is returning. That is what matters most now.