Southampton and Middlesbrough are embroiled in the Spygate scandal. (Image: Getty)
Middlesbrough have released a bombshell statement against Spygate calling for Southampton to be kicked out of the Championship play-off final. Both clubs are embroiled in scandal after the EFL accused Saints of breaching rules by observing Boro’s training session ahead of the semi-final first leg.
Southampton won the draw and booked a place in the final against Hull. However, the high-profile match may not go ahead as the EFL investigates the controversy, with an independent hearing expected to be held by Tuesday 19 May. Boro has learned that they will not be attending the hearing, a decision they do not agree with.
Mr Boro had wanted to give his evidence directly to the EFL’s independent inquiry, but the club’s request to take part in the disciplinary hearing was refused. Charges will continue during their absence.
A statement from Boro said: “Middlesbrough FC takes note of the disciplinary committee’s decision not to allow the club to intervene in the proceedings brought by the EFL against Southampton FC.
“The club regrets this outcome, having been directly affected by the matter under consideration and having relevant factual evidence regarding the events in question and their impact on the competition.
“The conduct in question, namely the observation and recording of training sessions in the run-up to such an important match, goes to the heart of sporting integrity and fair competition. In these circumstances, the only appropriate response is a sporting sanction to prevent Southampton FC from competing in the EFL Championship play-off final.”
“We continue to expect that the EFL, as a regulatory body, will seek such sanctions before a disciplinary committee in order to protect the integrity of the game, protect all member clubs and deter any attempts to gain unfair and illegal benefits in the pursuit of promotion to the Premier League in the future.
“The club reserves all legal rights.”
Express sports on FB! Get all the best sports news and more on our Facebook page
Southampton celebrates winning goal in play-off semi-final. (Image: Getty)
Yesterday (Thursday) the EFL issued a statement confirming that an independent inquiry will be held by next Tuesday, and also acknowledging that the final could still be postponed.
However, the match between Hull and Southampton or Middlesbrough will go ahead as scheduled on Saturday, May 23 at 4.30pm.
In a statement, the EFL said: “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. A hearing before the Independent Disciplinary Panel is expected to take place by Tuesday 19 May.”
“The exact date is still under discussion and will be confirmed shortly. The committee will make a decision as soon as possible after considering relevant submissions and evidence. The EFL has no control over the proposed timetable as proceedings are being conducted by an independent disciplinary committee.”
“Despite this, the EFL continues to plan for the Championship play-off final to take place as planned on Saturday 23 May, with kick-off time set for 4.30pm.
“However, supporters should be aware that the match may be subject to change depending on the outcome of any disciplinary proceedings. The EFL has a number of contingency plans in place, including consideration of an appeals process if necessary.”
