Southampton’s place in the Championship play-offs is in doubt after the English Football League charged the club with misconduct over allegations of “spying” on Middlesbrough’s training. Multiple reports say the issue centres on claims that a Southampton analyst was caught at Middlesbrough’s premises near Darlington on Thursday, two days before the first leg of their semi-final ended 0-0. Southampton and Middlesbrough are scheduled to learn the outcome as an independent disciplinary commission reviews the evidence submitted to the EFL.

Southampton say they have launched an internal review and have requested time to establish “the full context” before any conclusions are drawn. The EFL is presenting its case to the independent panel, which can impose sanctions ranging from a fine to expulsion from the play-offs. Middlesbrough are reported to be preparing for the possibility of a playoff final involving Hull if Southampton are expelled, and they are seeking to avoid financial penalties if found guilty.

Reports also describe Middlesbrough sending additional materials and lodge new complaints as the process moves toward a decision that could affect the Wembley final.