Southampton coach Eckert accepts responsibility for “spygate.”

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert issued an apology on Tuesday, admitting responsibility for the “spygate” scandal that led to the club’s exclusion from the Championship play‑offs.

The club was expelled last month after it was revealed that a young intern had been sent to observe a Middlesbrough training session. The English Football League (EFL) described the act as “deplorable” and found that the intern had been pressured by the club’s staff to spy on the opposition.

In a statement released on the club’s media platform, Eckert said: “I will try to be as honest and clear as I can be. For everything that has happened, I do want to apologise and I hold my hand up because as head coach I am responsible. I am responsible for everything that has happened at this football club.”

Southampton owner Dragan Solak expressed support for Eckert, describing the manager’s actions as a “mistake” but insisting that the club should not lose a “super‑talented manager.” Solak told the BBC: “I have to believe, honestly, and I believe Tonda, that he didn’t know it was the rule that he was breaking.” He added that the board believes Eckert deserves a second chance and will continue to back him.

In addition to the play‑off ban, Southampton will be docked four points for the season following the admission of multiple breaches of regulations concerning the “unauthorised filming of other clubs’ training” sessions.

The Football Association (FA) has launched an investigation into the incident and may still charge Eckert, potentially leading to a ban if found guilty. Solak maintains that the club has been “over‑sentenced” and that Eckert is facing a “witch‑hunt.” He stated: “My support comes from a very simple legal situation where there is no double jeopardy. Whatever crime you did, you can be sentenced only once.”

Middlesbrough, who were eliminated by Southampton in the play‑off semi‑finals, were reinstated for the final at Wembley on May 23 but were defeated by Hull, who will join Coventry and Ipswich in the Premier League next year.

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