Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert admits the FA’s impending verdict in the Spygate case is never far from his thoughts. The 33-year-old was charged with misconduct more than a week ago after authorising staff to monitor rival clubs’ training sessions. Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs in May after acknowledging they had spied on three teams, and the FA alleges Eckert acted improperly and harmed the sport’s reputation.
Owner Dragan Solak said in June he did not plan to dismiss the German coach, though a lengthy suspension could force the issue. Eckert told BBC Radio Solent that while the case lingers in the background, his focus is on football: pre-season planning, training, and the transfer window. He said he’ll welcome a conclusion when it arrives; until then, he’s keeping his head down and feels the squad is in a good place.