Tonda Eckert has issued a full apology to the Southampton fans and players, admitting he is a young coach who has made a mistake, but wont be sacked for his role in the Spygate scandal.The Saints were expelled from the Championship play-offs after admitting to charges of spying on Middlesbrough ahead of their semi-final tie, which Southampton won 1-0, and ahead of regular-season games against Ipswich Town and Oxford United.In addition to being kicked out of the play-off final against Hull City, Southampton were handed a four-point deduction for next season.The club appealed, alleging the punishment was manifestly disproportionate. However, that claim was dismissed, by an arbitration panel.more to follow Topics Southampton F.C. Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Southampton raise legitimate questions over Spygate panel after written reasons published Nicholas McGee 1st June, 2026 Southampton boss authorised spying on EFL clubs Mitch Fretton 21st May, 2026 FA to investigate Southampton spygate scandal after play-off expulsion Nicholas McGee 21st May, 2026 BREAKING: Southamptons appeal against Championship play-offs expulsion dismissed Nicholas McGee 20th May, 2026 Wrexham star calls for Championship play-offs to restart Mitch Fretton 20th May, 2026 Southampton punishment manifestly disproportionate says club chief as they await appeal verdict Jon Fisher 20th May, 2026
