FA is in headlines for investigations and governance chatter: spying probe at Southampton; UK football bodies under scrutiny over immigration, transfers, and referees. Football federation basics: governs the sport, member of UEFA/CONMEBOL. But today’s buzz is about ethics and compliance.
Southampton’s head coach Tonda Eckert is under FA investigation after a League Arbitration Panel found the club engaged in a “contrived and determined plan” to spy on opponents during the Championship playoffs. Owner Dragan Solak backs Eckert as the club pursues promotion back to the Premier League.
Equipment, including boots and training balls, has been stolen from a vehicle transporting England's World Cup kit from Florida to their Kansas City base; two people have been taken into custody and most items have been recovered, police and local officials have said. England have arrived at Swope Soccer Village and will train ahead of their Group L opener against Croatia on Wednesday.