Southampton were kicked out of the play-off final by the EFL, with manager Tonda Eckert admitting spying but not knowing it was against the rules
Tonda Eckert claims she didn’t know spying on opponents was against the rules (Image: Getty Images)
According to reports, Southampton manager Tonda Eckert claimed that spying on opponents is common in other parts of Europe and therefore did not know it was against English football rules.
The Saints manager admitted he was responsible for the decision to spy on opponents, which was ultimately banned by the EFL. As a result, the Championship side were expelled from the play-off final, with Middlesbrough returning in their place.
It was his decision to send an intern to watch his opponents in the semifinals that sparked the Spygate scandal. Eckert wanted to get a better understanding of how his rivals choose their teams, as well as learn more about possible set-piece routines.
The Saints manager has masterminded an incredible turnaround since taking charge on the south coast. Previously, he had held positions with the German national team and youth teams of FC Köln, RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, where the spy operation was carried out.
The Telegraph reports that he claimed to have been naive about English culture, which was a key defense he made during the EFL hearing. Eckert could be suspended by the FA, which could put his future at Southampton in doubt.
read more: Southampton admit to spying on three teams in appeal decision after being kicked out of play-offsread more: Southampton knocked out of Championship play-off final due to EFL bombshell
Eckert was coy when asked during the pre- and post-game press conferences of the playoff semifinals. Asked if he had been “cheating” after Southampton’s win, he refused to stretch the club’s original statement and walked away from the press conference.
Boro manager Kim Helberg showed his passion after Middlesbrough’s defeat, but there was a somber mood at St Mary’s that night, knowing full well there was an investigation going on. Following the EFL’s decision, officials at Riverside Stadium “welcome the outcome” and will prepare for the match against Hull.
Southampton narrowly defeated Middlesbrough but were kicked out of the play-offs (Image: Getty Images)
The hearing also revealed that Southampton’s observations of their opponents were not a one-off. They also observed Ipswich and Oxford training before the match, but failed to win either of their subsequent matches.
The Saints have the right to appeal and are reviewing the findings. They are understood to believe the punishment is excessive given their actions. If this continues, they will be expelled from the playoff finals and receive a four-point deduction for next season.
Southampton’s CEO said in an email to staff that the club was confident it could reverse the decision. The BBC understands that all parties have agreed to address the issue until a conclusion is reached on Wednesday to avoid the possibility of the final being moved.
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