Tonda Eckert Describes Spygate Impact on Southampton

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert has spoken about the personal impact of Spygate, explaining how the case affected his life, family and friends. The 33-year-old discussed the experience while reflecting on moving forward with the club's project.

According to BBC, Eckert said the conclusion of the case allowed him and people close to him to draw a line under a difficult period. He said Southampton's support played a role during challenging moments.

"It's tough. It changes your life. If I would say it's been all easy, it's not," said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.

Eckert said he had to decide how to continue after receiving public backing from the club owner. He explained that the decision also required him to assess his ability to lead the project.

"But you have to find a way. You have to come to a conclusion at one point in the summer of how you want to continue." said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.

The Southampton boss described the backing as something connected first to the club before becoming a personal decision about continuing in his role.

"That first decision [public backing from the owner] was not for me but for the club. And at that very moment, then it's for me to see if I have the energy to be the right one to bring that project forward." said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.

Eckert said committing to the next stage meant accepting responsibility without making excuses. He also said the situation was significant beyond his own experience.

"Once you make that decision, there's no excuses." said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.

The manager added that ending the case mattered to people around him because of the personal difficulties linked to the situation.

"for the ones close to me" said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.

Eckert said he normally keeps details of his private life away from public discussion but acknowledged the importance of closing the chapter.

"I am not the one who shares too much from my private life but obviously it does make a big difference that we can draw a line," said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.

He expressed appreciation for Southampton and the people who supported him during difficult periods as he continued with the club.

"I'm grateful for the club, I'm grateful for the people close to me to help me throughout some moments that haven't been easy." said Tonda Eckert, Southampton manager.