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Southampton sticking by ‘devastated’ Eckert after Spygate controversy as German coach apologizes
Owner Dragan Solak said the club believes Tonda Eckert deserves a second chance after the EFL upheld sanctions for spying on opponents.
- On Tuesday, Southampton owner Dragan Solak confirmed he will retain head coach Tonda Eckert despite his central role in the 'Spygate' scandal that cost the club promotion.
- Published Monday, the League Arbitration Panel's report revealed Eckert orchestrated a 'contrived and determined plan' to spy on opponents, with junior staff feeling 'compelled' to conduct clandestine operations.
- In a Tuesday video statement, Eckert accepted 'full responsibility' for the breaches while claiming observing training sessions is 'common practice' in Germany and Italy where he previously coached.
- Expulsion from the play-offs deprived the club of a guaranteed windfall of at least $270 million, while some players reportedly consider legal action over lost promotion bonuses.
- The Football Association has opened a separate investigation into the matter, which could result in a lengthy ban for the 33-year-old manager if additional charges arise.
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EFL protocols reveal spygate at Southampton: intern spying, drone shots and internal WhatsApp messages.
·Berlin, Germany
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Eckert takes blame for 'spygate' scandal
Southampton manager Tonda Eckert has apologised for orchestrating the "spygate" scandal that led to the club's expulsion from the Championship play-offs as owner Dragan Solak insisted that he would not sack the German. Saints were kicked out of last month's play-off final after admitting they had observed a training session held by semi-final opponents Middlesbrough, as well as two other similar incidents during the season. They also received a …
·Pakistan
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources78
Leaning Left18Leaning Right11Center18Last UpdatedBias Distribution38% Left, 38% Center
Bias Distribution
- 38% of the sources lean Left, 38% of the sources are Center
38% Center
L 38%
C 38%
R 24%
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