Tonda Eckert is free to continue as Southampton manager after being handed a suspended six-week ban for his role in the Spygate scandal. An independent FA regulatory commission issued the sanction alongside a £28,000 fine and a formal reprimand, with the suspension active until the end of next season.

The 33-year-old German coach was found to have authorised the spying on training sessions of Oxford United, Ipswich Town, and Middlesbrough before last season's play-off semi-finals. The commission noted his "genuine contrition" as considerable mitigation, deciding against the three-month ban initially proposed by the FA. The suspended sentence means Eckert will face an immediate six-week ban from all football if he is involved in any further spying incidents before June 2027.

Club welcomes decision

Southampton swiftly welcomed the outcome in a club statement, expressing hope it would conclude "a regrettable period of their history." Owner Dragan Solak said the panel's recognition that the club had already suffered enough was appreciated. "I firmly believe that Tonda is one of Europe's most exciting young coaches, and with this distraction removed, I am confident he can lead the team to a successful season," Solak said.

The owner was critical of the English Football League's handling of the case, stating "the way they have treated us is not something we will forget." The EFL had previously expelled Saints from the play-offs in May and imposed a four-point deduction for this season, a penalty that has contributed to the team's current 13th-place standing with 10 points from eight matches.

Rebuilding trust

Eckert, who was appointed permanently in December 2025 after initially taking interim charge, apologised in June. "I've asked for forgiveness," he said, claiming he was unaware the practice was banned. The FA charged him with misconduct for three breaches of its rules following a hearing at the end of last month. The club stated that measures are now in place to prevent any repeat of the errors in judgement.

On the pitch, Southampton's form has been mixed with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five outings. They face a significant test this weekend at home to local rivals Portsmouth, who sit 19th. The full fixtures list shows a busy schedule ahead. Top scorer Cyle Larin, with seven goals this season, will be a key figure as the team looks to climb the table.

The FA has not confirmed whether it will appeal the commission's decision. The ruling allows Eckert to immediately resume his duties, with his next task preparing the squad for the south coast derby on Saturday.

This story first appeared at BBC Sport Football