Middlesbrough lost to Southampton in the play-off semi-finals but are still awaiting the outcome of the EFL’s charges against Saints.
Southampton defeated Middlesbrough 2-1 in extra time to book a place in the Championship play-off final. (Image: Robin Jones, Getty Images)
Middlesbrough will not be allowed to appeal the verdict of an independent panel on charges brought against Southampton over spying. Spygate has dominated the headlines in recent days after Boro lost to Saints in the Championship play-offs.
During preparations for the first leg at Riverside at the weekend, Middlesbrough were spotted with members of Southampton’s analysis team spying on the preparations for the match.
It is against EFL regulations to observe an opposing team’s training session several days before a match. The rule was introduced following a similar incident between Leeds United and Derby County in 2019.
read more: ‘Evil’ – Hull City owner breaks silence on Spygate as play-off final hangs in the balanceread more: Nikki Butt uses abusive language during Spygate drama, claims manager should have ‘fired on the spot’
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Southampton have since been accused of breaching the rules, and the EFL has confirmed a hearing will take place by Tuesday, May 19, just four days before the play-off final.
If Southampton are found guilty, one possible outcome is for them to be excluded from the play-offs, with Boro playing in the final at Wembley instead.
In preparation for that scenario, Middlesbrough’s squad continues to train this week, with the play-off final scheduled for Saturday, May 23rd.
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Southampton are currently scheduled to take on Hull City in a high-profile clash. The Tigers defeated Millwall 2-0 in the semi-final to qualify for Wembley.
If the verdict does not go as Middlesbrough would like, the club will not have the power to contest the result. Boro will have no role in the hearing, despite originally filing a complaint with the EFL.
Instead, the case will be solely between the EFL, prosecuting, and Southampton, defending. An appeal against the final judgment will therefore be made by either the EFL or Southampton.
Middlesbrough manager Kim Helberg had an emotional reaction to the situation (Image: Warren Little, Getty Images)
Despite this, Boro could potentially take separate action against the EFL or Southampton once the litigation is concluded. They will probably be required to pay compensation.
Coach Kim Helberg had an emotional reaction to the situation immediately following their playoff semifinal loss. “I’m just disappointed,” he said.
“It’s unfortunate that it works out that way, that it breaks such rules.
“It just makes me sad. But there’s a lot of love and a lot of very, very beautiful things in football.”
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