Southampton boss Tonda Eckert reveals he is set to learn Spygate ban fate during international break

SOUTHAMPTON boss Tonda Eckert has revealed he is expecting a verdict from the FA over his Spygate probe during the international break. The German, 33, was charged by the FA over his role in the scandal which saw the Saints thrown out of the Championship play-offs. Southampton boss Tonda Eckert has revealed he expects a verdict on his Spygate probe soon Credit: Alamy The Saints were thrown out of the Championship play-offs after spying on Middlesbrough Southampton admitted to spying on three teams last season – including play-off semi-final opponents Middlesbrough. Intern William Salt was sent to Boro’s Rockliffe Park complex and was caught on camera filming videos behind a tree. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! The team went on to beat Boro but were kicked out of the play-off final, leading to fury from supporters as as Southampton were forced to issue a grovelling apology. Eckert managed to keep his job but could still be banned from the touchline ahead of a decisive FA hearing. When asked if there would be a decision during the upcoming international break, he replied: “Yes.” Eckert was then quizzed on the prospect of a ban, before saying: “Let’s see. “It’s a situation that has dragged on for a long time. I think we will have some clarity soon. “I think for everyone it is [a relief].” Most read in Sport BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK The former Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig youth assistant faces a ban of between six and to 18 months. It has been suggested Eckert was not aware the practice of spying was forbidden in English football. It is much more common across Europe, and Southampton are thought to have also spied on Oxford United in December and Ipswich in April. The saga killed off Southampton’s £215million Premier League promotion dream as Boro were reinstated to the play-off final in their place before-they lost to Hull City. The fallout led to claims that some players were considering legal action against the club over a loss of potential earnings. Eckert was appointed as the club’s full-time boss after initially replacing Will Still in charge earlier in the season as an interim. He had a terrific impact and led Southampton to a remarkable 21-game unbeaten run in the Championship. The coach also guided the Saints to the FA Cup semi-finals before a narrow 2-1 defeat to Manchester City. This season, his side are 13th in the Championship after four wins, two draws and two defeats. Comment now