Southampton manager Matt Eckert has apologised after an EFL disciplinary commission found he orchestrated a 'contrived and determined plan' to spy on opposing clubs during the play-off semi-final. The 33-year-old insisted he was unaware it breached EFL rules and that the spying had no impact on performances. Without the four-point deduction, Southampton would be fourth in the table rather than 13th.

Eckert, backed by the club, has spent the summer addressing the controversy and awaiting the FA's final decision. 'I've asked for forgiveness for what I've done,' he said, describing the punishment as 'absolutely unheard of in the history of sports.' Assistant manager Parsons argues the club has already suffered enough, noting the financial impact on local businesses and legal costs. The pair deny seeking replacement managers if Eckert is banned, insisting they've 'taken enough' punishment. The outcome remains uncertain as the FA deliberates on potential sanctions, with Parsons suggesting the Canadian case precedent differs significantly.