Tonda Eckert Whatsapp messages uncovered in shock Southampton spygate scandal | OneFootball

Southampton have been expelled from the play-offs as more evidence emerges following the outcome of their hearing

Southampton are reeling after being expelled from the play-off final as a consequence of spying on multiple teams.

It was first alleged by Middlesbrough that the Saints had filmed and taken photos of their pre-match training session before the first leg of their play-off semi-final.

Tonda Eckert’s side won the tie 2-1 on aggregate, earning their place at Wembley Stadium to face Hull City for a Premier League return.

But an independent commission oversaw a hearing earlier this week in which they decided to reinstate Boro ahead of the Hampshire outfit, with the club also receiving a four point deduction penalty for next season.

Southampton are set to appeal the decision, and they could yet be reinstated if their punishment is reversed.

However, as of writing, it will be Middlesbrough who face Hull this weekend in the play-off final despite losing in the semi-finals.

Tonda Eckert text messages uncovered in Southampton spying case

It has been reported by The Athletic that messages from Eckert were uncovered as part of the hearing against Southampton.

It’s believed that these WhatsApp texts were quite damaging to the club’s case, as they looked to avoid expulsion from the play-offs.

The Championship side admitted to three instances of spying on rival teams ahead of fixtures against them, including Boro.

Two analysts also provided evidence in which they alleged they were pushed into spying trips.

It has been reported that Eckert faces a further investigation from the Football Association for his role in this scandal, which could lead to a ban from football.

If Southampton are not reinstated into the play-off final, then there could be even more far-reaching consequences for the club.

The players are understood to be considering legal action against the Saints, and have made contact with their union, the Professional Footballers’ Association, following their expulsion.

A decision is expected promptly from Southampton’s appeal against their removal from the play-offs, with it being hoped that the game can take place as planned regardless of the outcome.

Hull City booked their place at Wembley with a straightforward 2-0 aggregate win over Millwall, with goals from Mohamed Belloumi and Joe Gelhardt sealing the victory.

The Tigers and Boro have both been absent from the Premier League since 2017, while Southampton were seeking an immediate return to the top flight after suffering relegation 12 months ago.

Tonda Eckert is unlikely to survive at Southampton

It would be very surprising if Eckert remains in charge of Southampton, even if they are reinstated to the play-off final.

This scandal has done a lot of reputational damage to the club, and that could be quite costly even if they can still win promotion to the Premier League.

The evidence emerging from this hearing is painting the 33-year-old in a negative light, with it being claimed his main defence is that he didn’t know spying was against the rules.

That is an amateur-level excuse, and this could lead to his managerial career being over, as other clubs will find it difficult to trust him again after playing such an important role in the scandal.