Southampton star Bree reveals Solak’s dressing-room response after Spygate

Southampton defender James Bree has opened up on the message delivered by owner Dragan Solak following the club’s controversial play-off expulsion, revealing how the Saints squad have been urged to channel their frustration into earning promotion next season.

The right-back admitted emotions were running high among the players after the punishment was handed down, with anger and disappointment dominating the dressing room in the immediate aftermath. Southampton were denied the chance to compete at Wembley, a setback Bree says still hurts within the squad.

Speaking about the reaction inside the camp, the 28-year-old explained that players struggled to process what had happened, describing the mood as emotional and difficult to accept so soon after the decision.

In a meeting held at Staplewood, owner Dragan Solak addressed the players directly and encouraged them to respond positively. According to Bree, Solak’s message focused on resilience, urging the squad to come back stronger, fight for promotion and ultimately rewrite the narrative surrounding the club.

Bree agreed with that mentality, saying the only real response now is to put things right by earning a return to the Premier League. Having signed a new contract, the defender is determined to be part of Southampton’s push next season, although he acknowledged the challenge ahead will not be straightforward.

Despite the disappointment, Bree believes the squad will return highly motivated, with players eager to prove themselves after what he described as unfinished business.

The defender also spoke positively about head coach Tonda Eckert, who remains under FA investigation after admitting to authorising spying missions on three Championship opponents. Bree praised the manager for the trust and guidance he offered after the defender returned to the side in January.

He credited Eckert for helping him rediscover confidence, allowing him to play freely and providing detailed coaching that improved his performances.

Bree also reflected on Southampton’s strong run of form toward the end of the season, noting that he remained unbeaten in the league after re-entering the team. While he described the outcome of the campaign as frustrating given how well the side had performed, he remains convinced Southampton possess one of the strongest squads in the division.

Looking ahead, Bree believes Saints have the quality required to challenge again, insisting the team know how effective they can be when performing at their best.