Southampton kicked out of Championship playoff finale due to scouting controversy

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Southampton were Tuesday expelled from the Championship play-off final after admitting to spying on a training session of semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.

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Middlesbrough have been reinstated and are set to face Hull at Wembley on Saturday for a place in the Premier League.

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Southampton will also be docked four points next season after admitting to multiple breaches of regulations related to the “unauthorised filming of other clubs’ training” sessions, according to a statement from the English Football League.

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“An independent disciplinary commission has today expelled Southampton from the Championship play-offs,” the EFL said.

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Southampton, relegated from the Premier League last season, confirmed they would appeal the sanctions.

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The EFL said the parties were working to ensure an appeal could be heard on Wednesday.

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“Subject to the outcome, it could result in a further change to Saturday’s fixture,” the EFL said.

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Promotion to the Premier League is worth an estimated £200 million ($268 million) in extra revenue.

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A member of the Southampton coaching staff was caught by Middlesbrough officials recording training on his phone.

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The EFL confirmed further charges had been laid against Southampton, and that the club had also admitted observing training sessions ahead of matches against Oxford and Ipswich.

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The first leg ended 0-0 before Southampton progressed with a 2-1 win after extra-time in the second leg.

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Middlesbrough issued a statement welcoming the outcome of the disciplinary commission hearing.

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“We believe this sends out a clear message for the future of our game regarding sporting integrity and conduct,” it said.

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Southampton have lost just once in their last 25 games, a 2-1 FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City.

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After a poor start to the season, they stormed into contention for promotion once Tonda Eckert took charge in November.

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However, the future of the German coach at St. Mary’s is now in doubt.

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