Southampton boss Eckert says he ‘will say something’ about spying allegations after investigation is completed | OneFootball

Southampton boss Tonda Eckert insists the club are taking allegations of spying on Middlesbrough’s training session “very seriously”.

Eckert’s side set up a play-off final clash against Hull City for a place in the Premier League by beating Middlesbrough 2-1 at St Mary’s Stadium on Tuesday.

But the two-legged semi-final tie was overshadowed by allegations that a member of Southampton staff was caught spying on Middlesbrough’s training session ahead of the first leg.

Southampton were charged by the EFL following the claim by Middlesbrough and could face punishment. Southampton also say they are conducting their own internal investigation into what happened.

“It’s not easy for me to not comment,” Eckert said after his side’s victory. “There’s just nothing that I can say at the moment because it is an ongoing investigation.

“We’re taking the matter very seriously and I will say something. I just can’t say it now.

“I will say something. It’s just not the moment now. I think this whole matter is overshadowing two games.

“I would hope that the way we speak about that gives credit to the quality of the games and when the investigation is closed I will say something.”

Asked if he was a cheat, Eckert then got up and left the press conference.