Middlesbrough boss Kim Hellberg issues surprise Tonda Eckert statement | OneFootball

Boro's head coach has been speaking openly about his Spygate rival.

The Spygate saga may be in the rear-view mirror, but as expected, talk of the matter has stretched deep into the summer ahead of the new Championship season.

With the World Cup grasping the spotlight, domestic matters have taken a backseat, but with Middlesbrough and Southampton back for pre-season training, the focus is gradually shifting back to English shores.

The Championship duo went close to promotion last term, and they will be expected to challenge again next season despite the number of strong clubs in the division.

With Boro and Saints to rekindle their rivalry, Kim Hellberg has spoken out on the Spygate drama again and seemingly buried the hatchet with Tonda Eckert.

Kim Hellberg issues Tonda Eckert revelation two months after Spygate saga

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All eyes will be on Middlesbrough and Southampton when they lock horns at St Mary's Stadium in late November for the first time since their infamous play-off meeting.

Whether Eckert will be in the dugout for that encounter remains to be seen as the German is currently under FA investigation, with the extent of his punishment unknown.

Saints' boss could receive a touchline ban or a ban from football entirely, and depending on how long a potential ban is, it could place his position as manager under jeopardy despite Dragan Solak's backing.

Boro's head coach Hellberg has been speaking out ahead of the new season, and, unsurprisingly, he was questioned about Spygate and Eckert.

“I don’t give it one thought now," he told The Sun. "It’s done. They’re getting the decision from the board, and now I’m just thinking about trying to do everything here and wishing them all the best.

“I have nothing against anyone there and wish the coach the best. Everyone can make mistakes, and that’s what it is.

“I have a lot of problems and challenges here to work with, so that’s what I’m focused on.”

Kim Hellberg's stance spot on as Middlesbrough march on

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Middlesbrough's head coach was understandably emotional after his side's exit from the Championship play-offs, but his emotional maturity is something that should put the club in good standing heading into the new campaign.

Holding a grudge against Eckert and Southampton would be foolish, as all focus must be on the new season and how Boro can mount a promotion charge.

Of course, when the two sides meet, it will be intriguing to see if emotions boil onto the touchline, as there will surely be a tense atmosphere in the stands, although with the first meeting at St Mary's it will not be as hostile for the home team.

Teessiders have warmed to Hellberg's character, and it is easy to see why, as he has built a special bond with the club despite only being there for a relatively short period, and it is vital that the club have somebody who embodies the spirit of the city.

How Middlesbrough cope without Hayden Hackney will be key to their success, but the club have time to replace him and should be equipped to evolve in his absence.

The most important thing is that the Swede has a full pre-season with his squad, and that could be the defining factor if Boro are to get off to another strong start.