The English Football League has indicated that Southampton could be kicked out of the playoffs and that the date of the Championship playoff final may be delayed if the club are found guilty of breaching regulations.
Southampton have been charged by the EFL for allegedly spying on Middlesbrough’s training within 72 hours of their first-leg meeting and for not acting “with the utmost good faith”.
Before Saints beat Boro in Tuesday’s second leg, the club confirmed they had launched an internal review into the allegations of misconduct. The independent disciplinary commission will hear the case by Tuesday 19 May, four days before the scheduled playoff final at Wembley.
In a statement released on Thursday providing an “interim update”, the EFL said: “The commission will issue its decision as soon as possible following consideration of the relevant submissions and evidence.”
The EFL reiterated the commission, rather than the league, controls the proposed timetable, adding: “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.”
It said Hull and Southampton would share ticket sale information on Thursday and that “supporters should consider the situation when booking any associated travel and accommodation”.
Hull, guaranteed a place in the Wembley showpiece, are understood to be frustrated at being left in limbo, with increasing doubts over their final opponents and the possibility the game could be postponed.
Hull believe the uncertainty raises questions regarding the sporting integrity of the competition. If Middlesbrough are reinstated into the playoffs, Hull would have to adapt preparations at short notice. Boro are preparing for such an eventuality, with Kim Hellberg’s side primed to return training on Monday.
Middlesbrough have privately and publicly pushed for severe punishment in the event Southampton are found guilty, with Hellberg, the head coach, accusing Tonda Eckert’s side of “cheating” and stressing a financial punishment would be inadequate.
There is no definitive window for the hearing but there is an acceptance that an appeal from either club would drag out the process. Under EFL regulations, clubs usually have 14 days to lodge an appeal, but in this scenario the commission will decide the timeline. There is an acknowledgment that, like the proceedings, any appeals process may have to be accelerated.
The EFL are comfortable with the various contingencies in terms of alternative dates, though the looming World Cup and other bookings at Wembley mean there is limited wriggle room; the rugby league Challenge Cup final is scheduled on 30 May and the women’s FA Cup on 31 May. The League One and League Two playoffs finals are on 24 and 25 May respectively.
