Eckert, 33, says he can learn a lot from veteran Hodgson, who has been in football management longer than the German coach has been alive.
The 78 year old began his career in 1976, returning to replace Eckert’s former colleague, Gerhard Struber, as caretaker Robins boss in March.
Eckert has invited the former England man for a glass of wine after Tuesday’s 7.45pm kick-off at St Mary’s, and would love to feed off his experience.
“For me, being a very young manager, there was the idea of getting in touch with some managers who have done the job for many years,” he said.
Bristol City boss Roy Hodgson held his first managerial role in 1976. (Image: Ben Whitley/PA)
“That was just to have an exchange and feed off their experience. He was the first one on the list that I would have loved to talk to.
“Obviously, it will be a bit different on Tuesday as we are both trying to win.
“If you reach out to staff or players or somebody who worked in football for a long, long time, no matter who you ask, everyone speaks so highly of him.
“That speaks for him and the character that he is. What he’s done as a manager, there’s nothing for me to say because his career speaks for itself.
“There’s always a little bit of emotion in the games. But, yeah, if he would love to come for a glass of wine, then he’s more than invited.”
Asked if he can see himself coaching at 78 years old, Eckert quipped: “That is a tough question for Saturday afternoon. I don’t know how he does it.”
Bristol City have won seven points from Hodgson’s first four games, although they lost 4-2 against Norwich City last time out on Saturday.