Southampton was eliminated from the Championship play-off final.

Southampton have reportedly taken drastic action against manager Tonda Eckert following their expulsion from the Championship play-offs due to the spygate controversy.

Middlesbrough has been restored in the play-off final against Hull City after an independent committee heard the EFL’s case over alleged espionage by a Southampton staff member prior to the second leg of the play-off semi-final.

In addition to losing their place in the final, Southampton has been penalized with a four-point punishment, which will take effect next season.

The English Football League said: “Southampton was first charged on Friday 8 May, with further charges issued on Sunday 17 May in relation to additional breaches during the 2025-26 season.”Middlesbrough faced further charges after the initial proceedings were begun.Southampton acknowledged to violating standards that require teams to act in good faith and prevent observing another club’s training session within 72 hours before a scheduled match.”

Southampton filed an appeal against both sanctions.

Now, talkSPORT claims that the controversy could cost manager Tonda Eckert his job.

The whole report into the alleged incidents is expected to prove Eckert’s full responsibility for spying on his opponents, which is normal practice in his home Germany.

Southampton owner Dragan Solak will be upset with the 33-year-old for putting the club’s reputation into disrepute and denying them the opportunity of a £200 million profit from gaining promotion to the Premier League.

Furthermore, Eckert and sporting director Johannes Spors may face an investigation and a possible ban from the Football Association for their activities.

According to the source, Southampton executives are afraid that the incident would have an influence on possible sponsorship negotiations, as companies do not want to be associated with a team that has acknowledged to cheating.

Middlesbrough hailed the commission’s decision ahead of their match at Wembley on Saturday.

Their statement said: “Middlesbrough Football Club welcomes the outcome of today’s Disciplinary Commission hearing.”We feel this sends a clear message about sporting ethics and conduct for our game’s future.

“As a club, we are now focused on our game against Hull City at Wembley on Saturday.””Ticket information for our supporters will be available soon.”

The appeals process is likely to complete today (Wednesday, May 20).