Tonda Eckert faces further criticism after it was revealed that the Southampton manager ‘pressured’ his young staff to spy on other teams’ training sessions.
Some are calling for Tonda Eckert to be fired (Image: Rich Linley – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Southampton owner Dragan Solak insists he will not sack Tonda Eckert despite revelations about his involvement in Spygate. Saints were kicked out of the Championship play-offs last month after they admitted to spying on the training sessions of three clubs during the season, including semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.
The independent disciplinary commission said German coach Eckert admitted he was responsible for what it called a “determined plan conceived from the top down.” He added that junior staffers tasked with analyzing opposing teams “felt pressure to make the observations that Mr. Eckert and the senior coaches wanted,” even though they felt that spying was morally wrong.
But Solak said Eckert, 33, could be suspended by the FA for his actions and “deserves a second chance”. “I think he’s a very talented manager so I’m actually going to give him all my support,” the Saints owner told BBC Sport.
“I don’t think Tonda knew he was breaking the rules. My personal opinion, and the board’s opinion, is that he is a manager who should and deserves our support.”
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“Obviously I’m going to ask the team for advice, I’m going to ask the players for advice, I’m going to ask the fans for advice. But certainly, if it’s my decision in the end, he’ll stay.”
When Southampton learned of the penalty, which included a four-point deduction for next season, they launched an appeal, but it was rejected. The league arbitration committee’s written reasons were released Monday.
The 39-page document said Mr Eckert was “surprised” to learn that EFL rules prohibit spying. Solak added: “In Italy and Germany, where Tonda worked, this is basically a common practice and no one cares.”
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Dragan Solak would keep Tonda Eckert if it was his decision.
But Southampton’s owner issued a warning to Eckert, who took over in December and led Saints to the FA Cup semi-finals, narrowly losing to Manchester City.
“I told him, ‘You almost broke my heart. If you do it again, you’ll kill me. Next time we meet in July, you won’t be able to work for me if you don’t know the EFL rulebook by heart, because we can’t afford to make any more mistakes.’
“I sincerely hope he learns from this experience and goes on to achieve a great career.”
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