Tonda Eckert admits ‘Spygate’ punishment fears as Southampton boss awaits FA verdict | OneFootball

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert is grappling with the looming threat of further disciplinary action from the Football Association, as the 'Spygate' scandal continues to cast a shadow over the club's pre-season preparations.

Eckert awaits the FA’s verdict, admitting the possibility of punishment remains a constant concern.

The Saints were previously expelled from last season’s Championship play-off final and handed a four-point deduction for the upcoming campaign by an EFL independent disciplinary commission. This followed the club's admission to three spying charges, having been caught observing semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.

Despite the controversy, Eckert retained his position, with owner Dragan Solak publicly endorsing the apologetic coach, who accepted responsibility for "everything that has happened".

The FA initiated its investigation on 21 May, subsequently charging the 33-year-old last Wednesday with three breaches of Rule E3.1, citing "misconduct" between December and May.

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Southampton were kicked out of the Championship play-offs back in May (EFL) (PA)

Eckert was given until Tuesday to submit his responses to the charge, which is expected to extend into August, disrupting the club's build-up to the new season, set to begin next weekend with a Carabao Cup fixture against Colchester.

"I would be lying if I said that it is not in the back of my mind," the Saints boss told BBC Radio Solent. "I think that’s true for everyone involved. But the positive thing is I just love the game, I love football.

“There’s so much to prepare for. There’s so many things to do in the pre-season with training preparation and a transfer window, and once you lock into whatever is needed at the very moment, that’s all that matters.

“It’s not that it’s constantly on my mind, but obviously we’ll be happy when the decision comes at one point and until then I just keep my head down, working, and I think the boys are in a good place."

Southampton will conclude their pre-season schedule with a friendly against German side Preussen Munster on Saturday. Following their Carabao Cup opener, they will commence their Championship campaign away to Watford on 16 August.

Despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding their manager and the four-point deduction, bookmakers still rank Saints as fifth favourites to win the Championship.