„Spygate” s-a încheiat: antrenor suspendat pentru spionarea antrenamentelor adversarilor

Southampton's coach, Tonda Eckert, has been suspended for six weeks after admitting to spying on rival teams' training sessions. The incident began when a club intern filmed Middlesbrough's training just before a crucial playoff match. The English Football Association imposed a fine of £28,000 and a warning alongside the suspension. Eckert acknowledged his mistake and accepted the consequences, stating that the suspension would only take effect if he commits a similar offense before the end of the 2027-2028 season. Southampton had previously admitted to similar actions against Oxford United and Ipswich Town. The club's appeal against the punishment was rejected, and they have faced further penalties, including a points deduction in the current Championship season. The club's owner expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment from the EFL, while the punishment was deemed lenient compared to other cases of football espionage.