Dragan Solak has confirmed he will not dismiss head coach Tonda Eckert following the Championship spying controversy that saw Southampton expelled from the play-offs. The Serbian owner told BBC Sport that Eckert deserves a second chance after guiding the club from 21st place to safety and the promotion race.

Southampton admitted to observing training sessions of Oxford United, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough before their play-off semi-final. The disciplinary commission found Eckert orchestrated a "contrived and determined plan from the top down" and imposed a four-point deduction for the 2026-27 season. A junior analyst intern claimed they were placed under extreme pressure to carry out the surveillance.

Solak argued the punishment was disproportionate, stating the club lost their chance to win £200m through promotion. He compared the spying to diving in football matches, suggesting other forms of cheating have more direct impact on results. The owner acknowledged he was unaware of the scheme until it broke on social media.

Several players are reportedly considering legal action over lost promotion bonuses after Southampton's play-off expulsion. Solak warned Eckert that any future rule violations would result in dismissal, but maintains the German manager has his full backing despite ongoing FA investigations.