Southampton’s place in the Championship play-off final against Hull City remains up in the air, but the EFL confirms disciplinary committee’s plans over spying allegations
The Championship play-off final is scheduled for May 23rd (Image: Getty Images)
The EFL has confirmed the Championship play-off final could still be postponed due to the Southampton spying scandal. Saints have been accused of spying on Middlesbrough’s training ahead of the semi-final first leg, and their place in the final against Hull City remains uncertain.
As Mirror Football exclusively revealed on Thursday, a panel of three legal experts is expected to meet behind closed doors in London to decide Southampton’s fate. The EFL has now said a decision will be made by Tuesday, hopefully allowing enough time for the matter to be resolved before the final on Saturday, May 23 (kick-off 4.30pm).
Two days before the first leg ended 0-0, Southampton staff were allegedly spotted filming Boro’s training session.
“The EFL can today provide an interim update on the ongoing disciplinary proceedings involving Southampton following Tuesday’s Championship play-off semi-final second leg,” the EFL said in a statement.
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“The Independent Disciplinary Commission hearing is expected to take place on or before Tuesday, May 19. The exact date is still under discussion and will be determined shortly.”
“The committee will make a decision as soon as possible after considering the relevant submissions and evidence. The EFL has no control over the proposed timetable as the proceedings are being conducted by an independent disciplinary committee.”
“Despite this, the EFL continues to make plans based on confirmation that the Championship play-off final will take place as scheduled on Saturday 23 May, with a kick-off time of 4.30pm. However, supporters should be aware that the fixture date may change depending on the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.”
Tonda Eckert’s team wait to learn their fate (Image: Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)
“EFL has a number of contingency plans in place and will consider an appeals process if necessary.”
The hearing into Southampton’s allegations has created a nightmare scenario for supporters planning on reaching the play-off final. There are nine days until the game between Hull and Saints, and ticket information has been delayed due to uncertainty.
The EFL added: “Hull City and Southampton will share further information regarding their respective sales processes later today.
“Standard terms and conditions apply to sales, so fans are advised to pay particular attention to the terms and conditions in this situation.
Southampton beat Middlesbrough 2-1 on aggregate to reach the final (Image: Warren Little, Getty Images)
“Similarly, supporters should take the circumstances into account when booking relevant travel and accommodation. This decision has been taken in ongoing coordination with the club to ensure that sale arrangements are implemented as soon as possible.”
“The League recognizes that this complex situation is causing concern and confusion for supporters, particularly those making travel arrangements, and will continue to provide as clear information as possible.
“However, in these clearly exceptional circumstances, the league believes this is the most appropriate course of action.”
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