'It hurts' - Saints boss Eckert on Spygate judgement

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reported that Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has spoken publicly about the fallout from the club’s “Spygate” case, saying criticism of his part in the matter has been painful and difficult to absorb. The case led to Southampton being removed from last season’s Championship play-offs after the club admitted spying on three opponents during the campaign.

According to the BBC, the English Football League charged Southampton over watching training sessions involving Oxford United and Ipswich Town, and over filming Middlesbrough before the first leg of their play-off semi-final. Southampton had beaten Middlesbrough across two legs, but after Saints’ expulsion, Middlesbrough were restored to the final and were beaten by Hull City. Southampton will also begin the new Championship season with a four-point deduction.

Eckert told BBC Radio Solent he accepted responsibility for authorising the conduct and apologised for what he described as poor judgement. He said the club held a meeting with players and staff immediately after the play-off expulsion, before the summer break, and that the squad has returned with improved energy as preparations resume.

The BBC reported that a Football Association investigation into Southampton remains ongoing and is examining who took part in the spying and who knew about it. The EFL can sanction clubs, while the FA may take action against individuals. Southampton owner Dragan Solak has backed Eckert and said he will not dismiss him. Saints open their Championship campaign away to Watford on 16 August.