What is the latest update on Southampton boss Eckert’s investigation by the FA?

Southampton’s punishment for the Spygate scandal may have already been delivered by the EFL, but the controversy surrounding the club is not yet finished. The future of head coach Tonda Eckert remains uncertain as he waits to discover what punishment, if any, he will receive from the Football Association.

Southampton are preparing to begin their Championship campaign, yet uncertainty continues to surround the German coach. Eckert was charged by the FA last month for his involvement in the spying controversy, and the outcome of the investigation could have a major impact on Southampton during the season.

Southampton start their Championship campaign at Watford on Sunday

BBC Sport understands that an FA hearing is expected to take place around the middle of September. If the hearing does happen during that period, Southampton could already be several matches into their Championship campaign before Eckert discovers whether he will face a suspension.

There is also the possibility of an appeal, which could prolong the uncertainty even further.

Why has Eckert been charged by the FA?

Eckert was formally charged with misconduct by the FA on 22 July following the scandal that ultimately ended Southampton’s hopes of competing in the Championship play-offs.

The Saints admitted that members of the club had been involved in spying on three opposition teams during the previous campaign. The EFL responded by removing Southampton from the play-offs and imposing a four-point deduction for the new Championship season.

However, the FA investigation is separate from the EFL disciplinary process.

The ongoing inquiry is examining who was involved in the spying operation and attempting to establish the level of responsibility held by individuals who were aware of what was happening.

Southampton’s owner, Dragan Solak, previously made his position clear by saying that Eckert would not be dismissed and deserved an opportunity to learn from the incident.

That decision could ultimately be taken away from the club if the FA imposes a lengthy suspension on the manager.

Another individual connected to the controversy, intern Will Salt, is also expected to remain with Southampton. BBC Sport understands that Salt is set to move into a permanent analyst position at the club.

Why has the FA investigation taken so long?

The length of the investigation has naturally attracted attention, especially because Southampton’s EFL punishment was completed relatively quickly.

The EFL began examining the spying allegations before the play-off semi-finals and charged Southampton on 8 May. Just 11 days later, the club learned its punishment and was expelled from the play-offs while also receiving the four-point deduction.

The circumstances were different for the FA investigation. Unlike the EFL process, which needed to be concluded quickly because the play-offs were taking place, the FA process gave Southampton additional time to prepare and submit evidence in their defence.

By the time Southampton presents its full case, almost four months will have passed since the FA began investigating.

The Championship will also have a three-week international break between 21 September and 6 October. However, it is currently unclear whether the FA will reach a decision during that period.

What happens if Eckert receives a ban?

The consequences for Southampton will largely depend on the length and nature of any punishment handed down to Eckert.

The German coach is only contracted at St Mary’s until the end of the current season. If he receives a substantial ban, the club may have to consider whether it can continue with him in charge or whether a replacement would need to be appointed.

Southampton technical director Johannes Spors has acknowledged that the club is preparing for several possible outcomes.

Speaking during a BBC Radio Solent fans’ forum, Spors admitted that there are still many uncertainties surrounding the situation and that the club does not yet have a definite plan for every possible scenario.

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He explained that Southampton are concentrating on their immediate footballing responsibilities while internally discussing different possibilities should the FA punishment create a problem.

Spors also stressed that the club remains hopeful of receiving a positive outcome.

Southampton have prepared for different scenarios

The uncertainty has already influenced Southampton’s preparations during pre-season.

During one friendly match, Eckert watched proceedings from the stands rather than occupying his usual position on the touchline. The unusual situation allowed the club to consider how matches might be managed if the coach is eventually prohibited from being in the technical area.

Eckert later joked about the possibility, expressing hope that Southampton would not need to use such arrangements during competitive matches.

However, a potential FA suspension may involve more than simply preventing the 33-year-old from standing on the touchline.

Spors indicated that Southampton have considered various possibilities, including situations in which Eckert could potentially be prevented from performing certain matchday duties.

The technical director reiterated that the club has ideas in place but does not want to make firm decisions until the FA announces its verdict.

Spygate has created a siege mentality

Southampton’s hierarchy has consistently maintained that the punishment imposed on the club by the EFL was excessive compared with the offence.

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That frustration has also been reflected among sections of the fanbase and within the dressing room.

Despite the controversy, Southampton officials have encouraged the squad to move forward and concentrate entirely on football.

The experience appears to have strengthened the players’ determination. Captain Jack Stephens previously suggested that the scandal had brought the squad closer together, while midfielder Flynn Downes admitted that the players have developed a significant chip on their shoulders heading into the new Championship campaign.

Some supporters have adopted a similar attitude.

During Southampton’s Carabao Cup victory over Colchester United, sections of the travelling support responded to the controversy by chanting, “we’ll spy when we want.”

However, not every supporter has been satisfied with how the club has handled matters. Questions have also been raised about season-ticket prices increasing despite the difficulties surrounding the club.

Southampton executive Jason Parsons explained that additional revenue would be invested into improving the stadium and overall matchday experience, while acknowledging the frustrations of supporters.

Eckert has received backing during the summer

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his position, Eckert says he has received significant support since the scandal emerged.

The Southampton manager revealed that he has spent part of the summer reflecting on what happened and cooperating with the FA investigation.

He has also used the break to improve his understanding of the EFL’s rules and regulations.

Eckert said he received encouragement from Solak, the sporting director and Southampton’s players, while also speaking to experienced managers from football and other sports.

He explained that his conversations were designed not only to improve his knowledge of the rules but also to help him understand the culture and principles behind those regulations.

With Southampton having already beaten Colchester 2-0 in the Carabao Cup, Eckert is now preparing for the Championship opener against Watford at Vicarage Road.

The Saints will therefore begin their campaign with their manager still under investigation, leaving the club facing an uncertain few weeks while waiting for the FA to decide Eckert’s future.