02 Jun 2026 09:11:20
New information released about Southampton's spygate saga reveal the extent of involvement within the club and the lengths the manager and others would go to in order to gain a perceived advantage.
Undue pressure was put on junior staff, disguises were used including wearing Eastleigh kit and evidence was deleted.
The Club and individuals consistently lied - denied that the manager and senior staff knew about it, said no footage was taken or distributed and was not used in the preparation for matches and also said, untruthfully, that they were unaware it was against the regulations.


It was summed up by the commission's comment that it was "unimpressed by some of the club's witnesses, including Eckert".
The decision to expel was taken on the grounds that public confidence and the integrity of the competition would be seriously diminished if a non sporting sanction such as a fine was the outcome.
Probably still more to come once the investigation into the conduct of Southampton staff is completed. Although the club's Chairman has today said he stands behind his manager and wants him to stay, in the end it may not be his decision.

1.) 02 Jun 2026
02 Jun 2026 10:38:59
And....?

2.) 02 Jun 2026
02 Jun 2026 10:57:54
....They got what they deserved. Shame the Premier League can't take the same line with any sense of urgency.

3.) 02 Jun 2026
02 Jun 2026 11:12:42
There's a good chance that the FA will mandate a substantial suspension from football related activities for Eckert (and others) . If he gets a 12 month ban (possible) , they're going to have to find a replacement, like it or not.

4.) 02 Jun 2026
02 Jun 2026 14:10:29
Perhaps, the FA will face its own internal inquiry into the unjust disadvantages Leeds United have received from referees in their decisions, which is clear for all to see.

5.) 02 Jun 2026
02 Jun 2026 15:58:18
What Whitey said.
If only that would blooming happen.

Football needs an independent body to monitor / regulate the FA and EPL.