The EFL has released a statement after a Southampton club employee was spotted at Middlesbrough’s training ground just days before the Championship play-off semi-final.
Southampton charged by EFL (Image: Getty Images)
Southampton have been charged by the EFL after a club employee was accused of spying on Middlesbrough during training ahead of a crucial play-off clash.
On Thursday, a Saints club employee was spotted hiding in bushes at Middlesbrough’s Rockliffe Park training center, apparently videotaping training sessions.
After being spotted, they refused to identify themselves but deleted the videos and photos from their phones. The man in question then reportedly left the scene and headed to the Rockliffe Hall Hotel, where he changed clothes.
Middlesbrough made an official complaint to the EFL about the incident, and the governing body subsequently launched an investigation. And now Southampton has admitted to the charges.
In a statement, the EFL said: “Southampton Football Club has today been charged with a breach of EFL regulations and the matter will be referred to an independent disciplinary committee.
read more: EFL investigates Southampton over Middlesbrough filming ahead of play-off semi-finalread more: EFL Championship Playoff Power Rankings, Premier League to watch
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“This follows a request from the EFL to observe the club following a complaint from Middlesbrough regarding alleged unauthorized filming on private property ahead of the clubs’ meeting in Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final first leg. The charges relate to the following provisions:
“EFL Rule 3.4 requires clubs to act towards each other in the utmost good faith and EFL Rule 127 prohibits any club from observing or attempting to observe another club’s training session within 72 hours of a scheduled match between the two clubs.”
“Under EFL regulations, Southampton would normally have 14 days to respond to accusations. However, given the nature of the matter, the EFL will ask the Independent Disciplinary Panel to shorten the response period and hold a hearing at the earliest opportunity. The league will make no further comment while the case is ongoing.”
Tonda Eckert tries to lead Southampton back to the Premier League (Image: Getty Images)
Leeds United charged with spying for Derby County
Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa subsequently admitted there was a conspiracy behind the plan, and the club was ultimately fined £200,000.
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