Eckert accepts responsibility for spying scandal as Southampton back their manager

Last month, Southampton were ejected from the Championship play-offs after confessing that they had sent a junior intern to spy on a Middlesbrough training session.

The English Football League stated that the south-coast club had been found guilty of a "deplorable" act of pressuring the junior staff member to spy on Boro.

In a harsh judgment, the governing body declared that Southampton manager Eckert had authorised the spying.

The 33-year-old German has now released a lengthy video statement on the club's official channels, beginning with: "I will attempt to be as honest and clear as possible."

"For all that has occurred, I wish to apologise and I admit fault because as head coach I bear responsibility.

"I am accountable for everything that has taken place at this football club."

Southampton's owner Dragan Solak stated that he was supporting Eckert.

The Serbian media tycoon conceded that Eckert had made a "mistake" but insisted that it should not cost a "super-talented manager" his job.

Solak told the BBC: "I have to believe, honestly, and I believe Tonda, that he did not know it was the rule he was breaking."

He added: "My own view, and that of the board, is that he is a manager worthy of our backing and support.

"I believe he merits a second chance and I would grant him that. My primary support is behind him, actually, because I consider him an extremely talented manager."

Southampton will also be docked four points next season after admitting to multiple breaches of regulations related to the "unauthorised filming of other clubs' training" sessions.

Eckert is not entirely in the clear yet, as the Football Association (FA) has initiated an investigation into the matter and may still press charges, which could result in a suspension if he is found guilty.

Solak, however, believes that Eckert has been subjected to a "witch hunt" and the club has been "overly punished".

"My backing arises from a very straightforward legal principle: there is no double jeopardy," said Solak.

"No matter the crime you committed, you can be punished only once."

Middlesbrough, who were defeated by Southampton in the play-off semi-finals, were reinstated for the final at Wembley on 23 May but were beaten by Hull, who will join Coventry and Ipswich in the Premier League next season.