Several Championship clubs fear they could be victims of Southampton Spygate scandal

A number of Championship clubs are studying CCTV footage to see if they may have been victims of the Southampton Spygate scandal, talkSPORT understands.

Saints have been charged by the EFL after a member of boss Tonda Eckert’s backroom staff was allegedly caught filming a training session of play-off semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.

Getty

The south coast side are not expected to contest the charge, leading to suspicions this is not an isolated incident.

Saints have been on an incredible run since Eckert replaced Will Still as manager, culminating in a 19-match unbeaten sequence to help force their way into the top six and a potential Premier League return.

However, their play-off campaign has been marred by the aftermath of the alleged spying incident.

The team’s bus was met by a hostile reception from Boro fans prior to Saturday’s semi-final first leg.

Supporters had gathered outside the Riverside Stadium as both squads arrived for the match.

Both sets of fans brought binoculars to the fixture to poke fun at the controversial incident.

Neither side was able to break the deadlock, with the first leg ending in a goalless draw.

The sides will renew acquaintances at St. Mary’s on Tuesday, with the winner facing Millwall or Hull City in the final on Saturday.

Saints held Boro to a 1-1 draw at home in September when the two clubs met in the league.

Eckert had been asked about the ‘Spygate’ accusations during his post-match press conference at the Riverside.

Getty

However, the German refused to answer when pressed on the matter before storming out of the room.

Saints under Eckert

His side are aiming to secure an immediate return to the top-flight following their relegation last term.

Southampton were promoted to the Premier League via the play-offs just two seasons ago.

Under former boss Russell Martin, they beat Leeds United at Wembley Stadium in 2024.

Meanwhile, Eckert was named first-team manager on a deal through until 2027 back in December.

It followed a five-match spell as caretaker boss after his arrival as Under-21s manager in the summer.

Getty

Since securing the role on a permanent basis, the 33-year-old has won 20 of his 34 matches across all competitions.

Saints have also lost just five times since his appointment five months ago.