Southampton manager Tonda Eckert has confirmed that the club is treating allegations of spying on Middlesbrough's training sessions with the utmost seriousness, but has reserved further comment until the ongoing investigation is complete.

The Saints secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough at St Mary's Stadium on Tuesday, booking their place in the Championship play-off final against Hull City with a coveted spot in the Premier League on the line. However, the triumph has been somewhat overshadowed by controversy.

Middlesbrough officials reported that a member of Southampton's staff was allegedly caught observing their training session ahead of the first leg of the semi-final tie. The English Football League (EFL) has since charged Southampton, who have also launched their own internal probe into the matter.

"It's not easy for me to not comment," Eckert stated following the victory. "There's just nothing that I can say at the moment because it is an ongoing investigation. We're taking the matter very seriously and I will say something. I just can't say it now."

The Southampton boss expressed frustration that the incident has taken attention away from the quality of the two-legged tie. "I would hope that the way we speak about that gives credit to the quality of the games," he added. "When the investigation is closed, I will say something."

When pressed by a reporter on whether he considered himself a cheat, Eckert abruptly ended the press conference by standing up and leaving the room without further comment.

As the Saints prepare for their crucial play-off final, all eyes will be on the outcome of both the EFL and internal investigations, which could have significant implications for the club's future.