Former Liverpool defender Neil Ruddock finds it hard to believe that Southampton decided to stick by disgraced coach Tonda Eckert after the spying scandal that saw them kicked out of the Championship play-off final.
He thinks there could be trouble amongst the squad too, who may harbour resentment that Eckert’s scheme cost them promotion – and probably a healthy bonus because of it.
Ruddock also has some words of advice for any team wanting to recreate the plot, telling them to disguise themselves in a Middlesbrough top so they can blend in.
Case of worst-class espionage
During an exclusive conversation with iGaming.com, Razor said of last season’s sying scandal: “It was unbelievable.
“Sending someone to Middlesbrough to spy on training, standing behind a tree with a camera… if you’re going to spy, at least put a Middlesbrough shirt on to blend in with the locals.
“Standing behind a bush looking conspicuous is worst-class espionage.
“He reportedly acknowledged doing similar things previously.”
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Surprised by board backing
Razor added: “If I were a player with promotion bonuses on the line, I’d be furious about the distraction, because getting into the Premier League transforms player contracts and earnings.
“I’m surprised the board stood by him, but given their style of play, they decided to maintain continuity.
“Back in my day, training grounds were completely open house – anyone could walk up and watch sessions.
“We didn’t have smartphone cameras everywhere, but opposition scouts would just stand at the gate taking notes in plain sight.
“There were no real state secrets.”
Southampton began the 2026/27 Championship season with a 2-1 defeat to Watford and currently sit bottom of the table on minus four points, which were deducted due to breaches of EFL regulations.
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Juliette White 
Michael Davey