EFL have issued an update on disciplinary proceedings into Southampton’s alleged spying on Middlesbrough ahead of their Championship Play-Off Semi-Final tie.
Southampton were charged with breaches of EFL Regulations 3.4 and 127. last Friday (8 May), after one of their analysts later reportedly identified as William Salt was caught videoing Middlesbrough’s training session at Rockcliffe the previous day.
The matter was also referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission (IDC) which is scheduled to take place either on or before Tuesday 19 May, with exact date still yet to be ratified.
EFL have also confirmed that the IDC would issue its decision as soon as possible once they have considered the relevant submissions and evidence, with the timetable beyond the EFL’s control.
With Hull currently set to meet Southampton in the Play-Off Final after second-leg victories over Millwall and Boro respectively, the kick-off time at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 23 May has been set for 4:30pm BST.
EFL however has urged supporters to be aware that there could be changes to the fixture depending on the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings, with various contingency plans put in place depending on various eventualities including an appeal process if required.
Both Hull and Southampton will be permitted to share further information on their ticket sale processes subject to usual terms and conditions, of which both set of supporters are urged to pay close attention given the circumstances of the situation.
Due diligence must also be made by supporters when booking travel and accommodation arrangements, of which the EFL has recognised has created ‘concern and disruption’ for fans of both clubs but feel that this is ‘the most appropriate course of action’ at this moment in time.
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