In a revealing interview with Sky Sports News, Tonda Eckert, the head coach of Southampton, shared details about the police protection he received amid threats during the Spygate scandal. The controversy erupted after Southampton admitted to spying on three clubs, leading to their ban from the Championship play-off final in May. The EFL charged the club after it was discovered they had observed training sessions for Middlesbrough, Oxford, and Ipswich.

Key Points:

• Southampton starts the upcoming season with a minus-four points penalty due to the scandal.
• Eckert described the emotional turmoil he faced, stating, "It's been an emotional summer... it's tough to look into the eyes of the players."
• The coach highlighted receiving threats that necessitated police protection, reflecting on the difficult period:

You can't drive a car... you always have someone you can reach in case something happens.

• He expressed optimism about the upcoming season, noting that players returned in good shape and with positive spirits during pre-season training.

Eckert is currently under investigation by the FA and recently participated in an interview regarding the ongoing inquiry. He emphasized the importance of the investigation's timely conclusion, stating, "I think on our daily work it doesn't influence us so much; once you're out on the pitch, there's work to do."

While acknowledging potential challenges, Eckert believes the team has the support of its players and aims to unite the club's core as they face a potentially hostile reception next season. He admitted to reflecting on the rules and regulations of the EFL and FA, vowing to ensure such issues do not arise again.