Saints head coach Eckert awaiting update following FA hearing over Spygate

Eckert, 33, and his legal representatives travelled to the FA's headquarters at Wembley earlier this week as his misconduct case nears its conclusion.

The German was charged by the FA for three breaches of Rule E3.1 relating to misconduct, for acting improperly and/or bringing the game into disrepute.

The charge follows Eckert admitting to authorising training ground spying missions on three different Championship opponents last season.

Saints were sanctioned heavily by the EFL, with an independent commission opting to kick them out of the play-off final and docking four points.

But now Eckert is set for an individual punishment, after the FA opened its own investigation in June and formally charged him on Wednesday, July 22.

Sources tell the Daily Echo that Saints and Eckert are still waiting to hear the outcome of the hearing, and whether any further action is required.

Although the hearing took place on Thursday, it is possible that, while all parties hope for a swifter update, the wait could go into next week.

Saints and the FA declined to give an official update when approached.

Last week, Eckert said he expected a decision during the international break, adding: "It's a situation that has dragged on. I think we will have clarity soon."

Meanwhile, Saints are playing Premier League outfit Aston Villa at their Bodymoor Heath training ground in a behind-closed-doors friendly today.