Southampton owner will not sack apologetic Eckert despite role in Spygate scandal

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has publicly apologised for orchestrating the Spygate scandal, in which the club observed training sessions of three opponents last season, leading to an independent disciplinary commission finding Southampton had 'seriously violated' the integrity of the Championship and expelling them from the playoff final. Despite Eckert facing six EFL charges and a separate Football Association investigation, owner Dragan Solak confirmed he will not sack the German coach and wants him to lead the club to the Premier League next season. Eckert accepted 'full responsibility' in a club video message, apologising to the affected clubs and Southampton supporters.