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Spygate fall-out, takeover fail and baffling injuries – Stoke City’s rivals feeling the heat

The Championship returns as Stoke City head to Bolton Wanderers on Saturday

By Brian Dick · Stoke-on-Trent Live

Published: Friday, 9 October 2026 at 9:28 AM

Key Things to Know

Several Championship clubs are dealing with major controversies, failed takeovers, and persistent injury issues.
Southampton's Tonda Eckert received a six-week suspended ban and a £28,000 fine over the Spygate saga.
Derby County manager John Eustace addressed the club's struggles following the collapse of Turki Alalshikh's takeover.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Stoke City's Championship rivals are facing significant turmoil, ranging from disciplinary sanctions to takeover collapses and injury troubles. Southampton's Tonda Eckert received a six-week suspended ban and a £28,000 fine for spying on Middlesbrough, while Derby County sits third from bottom following the collapse of Saudi billionaire Turki Alalshikh's takeover.

Elsewhere, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson expressed bafflement over defender Liberto Cacace's recurring calf injuries. Meanwhile, Bristol City received positive news with centre-back Rob Dickie expected to return from a knee injury before Christmas rather than missing the entire season.

Read the full article on Stoke-on-Trent Live

Spygate fall-out, takeover fail and baffling injuries – Stoke City’s rivals feeling the heat

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