Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has expressed that it’s been challenging to process the scrutiny regarding his involvement in the ‘Spygate’ controversy prior to the club’s expulsion from the Championship play-offs last season.
The Saints were expelled from the play-offs in mid-May after admitting to spying on three other clubs during the season.
As a result of their actions, Middlesbrough, whom they faced in the play-off semi-finals, were reinstated to the final, where they ultimately lost to Hull City.
The EFL charged the Saints for observing training sessions involving Oxford United and Ipswich Town, as well as filming Middlesbrough’s preparations for the first leg of their semifinal.
In addition to the prior sanctions, Eckert’s team will begin the new Championship season with a four-point deduction.
“It hurts for various reasons,” the German coach told BBC Radio Solent. “It’s difficult to read some of the opinions out there. I’ve taken responsibility for this judgment on something I authorized. I accept my responsibility and apologize for the poor judgment; we’ve been in this situation for a week now, and it’s important to move forward. Since returning, there’s been a lot of positivity and good energy in the environment.
The club convened a meeting with players and staff immediately following their expulsion from the play-offs before they departed for their summer breaks.
Eckert acknowledged the difficulty of that period: “You can’t expect to be welcomed with open arms; that’s very realistic. There are many emotions at play that need to be processed.”
“After a long break, everyone responds differently. For some, moving on from last season might take a couple of days; for others, it could take longer.”
‘A Very Professional Process’
Southampton is currently under an ongoing investigation by the Football Association, which has been underway for over a month, reviewing the club’s conduct and determining who was involved in the spying activities.
While the English Football League, which filed the charges against the Saints, can only penalize member clubs, the FA has the authority to impose bans on individuals.
Eckert remarked that despite the situation, his staff must continue preparing for the new season. “I found the FA’s process to be very professional, as they took the time to ask questions and listen to my perspective,” he stated.
“Now, we must await the outcome. I have no ability to alter the result, but there’s plenty to do to ensure the players are ready. There’s excitement to be found in the upcoming season.”
“It’s up to us to inspire through how we play and to achieve victories. However, we cannot expect that simply replicating our past efforts will yield the same success; that’s not how it works.”
Owner Solak’s Support ‘Based on Trust’
Saints owner Dragan Solak says he will not dismiss Tonda Eckert due to the Spygate incident [Getty Images]
Despite the ongoing FA investigation, Southampton is focused on the upcoming Championship season. Owner Dragan Solak has publicly supported head coach Eckert, declaring he will not be sacked.
In a statement to the club’s media, Solak expressed confidence in Eckert, noting that he deserves another opportunity and has his full backing.
“It’s a significant commitment from him,” Eckert said, noting that the owner’s support is both “humbling and substantial.” “It becomes particularly evident in challenging times, whether with players, staff at the training ground, ownership, or the board.”
“It requires reflection on how to progress with the club. His prompt decision reflects the bond and trust we have built.”
The Spygate incident has sparked considerable reaction, with Kim Hellberg, manager of Middlesbrough – Southampton’s semi-final opponents – stating that every Championship club “should be outraged.”
Eckert anticipates that the upcoming season will be demanding for everyone at the club and for their supporters. “We must be stronger than ever, both internally and alongside our fans,” he remarked.
“On the field, we need to improve in specific areas, which is the purpose of pre-season, and be prepared for Watford in our opening match.”
“Ultimately, it’s essential for us to demonstrate our capabilities once again. No one at the club is overly concerned about past incidents. The last game feels very distant; as we’ve always maintained, this is how we approach the start of a new season.”
Southampton’s first Championship match is scheduled away at Watford on August 16.