Southampton were kicked out of the Championship play-offs after being caught spying on opponents, but head coach Tonda Eckert remains in a fractious relationship with the FA.
Tonda Eckert has been charged by the FA (Image: Rich Linley – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Tonda Eckert has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association over the “Spygate” scandal that rocked last season’s championship playoffs.
Southampton were kicked out of the play-offs in May after it was discovered that their staff had been spying on their opponents training, despite beating Middlesbrough in two legs.
Saints were also given a four-point penalty in 2026-27, after which Middlesbrough returned to the play-off final, with Hull City winning 1-0 at Wembley.
Eckert’s position came under intense scrutiny in the aftermath of the scandal, and an investigation was subsequently launched against the 33-year-old.
His future is up in the air after it was confirmed Eckert had been charged with three counts of bringing the game into disrepute after being found guilty of spying against Middlesbrough, Ipswich Town and Oxford United.
Confirming the news on Wednesday, the FA’s statement said: “The head coach will be involved in the upcoming games against Oxford United FC, Ipswich Town FC and Middlesbrough FC in December 2025, April 2026 and May 2026 respectively. “He is alleged to have acted inappropriately and/or brought the game into disrepute by directing and/or permitting the observation of these clubs’ training sessions ahead of the match between them and Southampton FC.”
It remains to be seen what punishment Eckert will face, with previous reports suggesting the German could be suspended by the FA. The EFL has the power to punish individuals; the EFL can only impose sanctions on clubs.
Southampton were eliminated from the play-offs despite beating Middlesbrough in two legs (Image: Robin Jones, Getty Images)
Southampton confirmed in their own statement that they and Eckert had admitted the charges, adding: “Tonda and the club will continue to co-operate fully and openly with the FA.”
“Our focus remains on preparing for the 2026-27 Championship season. The club continues to fully support Tonda and his staff in their ambitions to return to the Premier League.”
“As the process is ongoing, we are unable to comment further, but we will update our supporters as soon as we are able to do so.”
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