Southampton respond to EFL ruling on Tonda Eckert 'Spygate'

Southampton released a pointed statement after the Arbitration Panel published its written reasons rejecting the club's appeal against EFL sanctions. The club accepted responsibility for structural and leadership failures during the 'Spygate' scandal, which cast a long shadow over their campaign after a disappointing conclusion to the Championship play-off that saw them banished from the final against Hull after admitting to monitoring their opponents' training sessions.

The EFL described the scheme as a "contrived and determined plan from the top down" that was approved by coach Tonda Eckert, and published WhatsApp messages showing the manager was "adamant" that an analyst be sent.

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