The Championship play-off final could be moved away from Wembley Stadium (Image: Getty Images)
Middlesbrough will reportedly seek involvement in the ‘Spygate’ independent commission when the case against Southampton takes place next week. The Teessiders are demanding sporting charges against their play-off opponents following allegations they were caught spying last week. The Athletic reports Boro have enquired whether they can take part, which could generate further friction between the two clubs.
The EFL charged the Saints with misconduct prior to the first leg of the play-off semi-finals after an analyst from the club was observed at Rockliffe Hall in the run-up to the match with recording equipment. As is customary, Boro would only be permitted to submit a written submission as an interested party, meaning they would have no right to an appeal as the EFL are bringing the charges, while the Saints are the defendants.
Reports suggest Boro suspect Southampton may have spied on at least one other club in the second tier, and it’s claimed a former club employee is assisting them. Express Sport have contacted the north east club for comment.
This comes after an EFL statement confirming the hearing will occur within days. They said that the final may yet be rescheduled from its original date. There is also a possibility that the final, in which Hull City are due to face Southampton, could be moved away from Wembley despite tickets going on sale on Friday.
It read: “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 Independent Disciplinary Commission hearing will take place on or before Tuesday 19 May. The exact date remains under discussion and is expected to be confirmed shortly.
“The Commission will issue its decision as soon as possible following consideration of the relevant submissions and evidence. As the proceedings are being conducted by an Independent Disciplinary Commission, the EFL does not control the proposed timetable.
“Notwithstanding this, the EFL continues to plan on the basis that the Championship Play-Off Final will take place as scheduled on Saturday 23 May, with the kick-off time confirmed as 4.30pm.
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A Middlesbrough fan is seen using binoculars inside the stadium at Southampton (Image: Getty Images)
“Supporters should, however, be aware that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings may yet result in changes to the fixture. The EFL has a number of contingency plans should they be required, which also includes consideration of any appeal process, if required.”
Both Hull City and Southampton have already distributed ticketing information ahead of the showpiece occasion later this month, yet the EFL has warned it will take the most appropriate course of action should the Saints be found guilty.
They said: “The League recognises that this complex situation has caused concern and disruption for supporters, particularly those making travel arrangements, and will continue to provide as much clarity as possible.
“However, in these clearly exceptional circumstances, the League considers this to be the most appropriate course of action.”
Boro manager Kim Hellberg struggled to hold back his emotions during a heartfelt post-match press conference following the defeat at St. Mary’s. His squad have since returned to training, despite suffering their extra-time loss on the south coast, on the off-chance they are reinstated in Southampton’s place for the final.
