A general view of a Private Property sign at Rockliffe Park, Middlesbrough’s Training Ground. Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play-offs after admitting to spying on opponents on three occasions this season, including play-off opponents Middlesbrough earlier this month. The club have also been docked four points for next season, with Middlesbrough reinstated to the play-offs and set to take Southampton�s place in Saturday�s final against Hull. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2026. - (PA Wire)
Middlesbrough will play Hull in Saturday’s Championship play-off final after Southampton lost their appeal against their expulsion for ‘spygate’.
An independent commission imposed the penalty on Tuesday – and docked the Hampshire club four points for next season – after Saints admitted three spying charges, including observing a Boro session ahead of the semi-final first leg.
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