An independent disciplinary panel could see Southampton banned from the Championship play-offs if they are found guilty of filming and observing Middlesbrough’s training sessions. Saints are charged with breaching two EFL regulations relating to acting with integrity and monitoring opposition teams’ training ahead of scheduled fixtures.
Boro has filed a complaint with the league regarding the alleged unauthorized filming on private property. The club’s leadership is expected to firmly push for the expulsion of its rival. Any hearing will only take place after the second leg of the semi-finals on Tuesday. There are 11 days left until the final at Wembley Stadium.
The Mail reports that the North East club will continue training beyond the post-season as Boro could potentially replace an opponent who is still under investigation. They are seeking a “sporting” sanction against Southampton rather than a financial fine similar to the one Marcelo Bielsa paid as Leeds United boss seven years ago.
Their coach Kim Helberg said of potential penalties for their opponents: “Who’s going to get the fine? Should they pay it to the EFL?”
“So they’re watching everything we do, is that OK? I think it’s weird that they would do something like that and try to cheat in this kind of game.
“I know Bielsa paid £200,000, but it wasn’t the law at the time. Many clubs would pay that amount to get the advantage of meeting Bielsa in the two pre-match sessions.”
“For a match of this size the club would pay that amount, but it’s not legal and they shouldn’t do that. It’s not my decision as to what the punishment should be.”
“The players didn’t do anything, the fans didn’t do anything. So it’s not for me to decide. I’m just giving the facts and you can see the facts. We’ll see what happens.”
Southampton, on the other hand, have revealed little about the matter. The South Coast organization said: “We acknowledge the statement issued by the EFL regarding the alleged breach of EFL regulations.
“We can confirm that we will fully cooperate with the league throughout this process. Given the nature of the ongoing matter, the club is unable to comment further at this time.”
Head coach Tonda Eckert declined to provide further details beyond what the club has said publicly. He consistently referred to their statements when questioned before and after Saturday’s first leg, which ended 0-0.
The Guardian reported this week that other clubs had contacted Middlesbrough to discuss their own allegations of being spied on by Southampton. The Saints finished the season with an incredible 19-game unbeaten run, contributing to a top-six finish.
