The English Football League has revealed that Southampton risks being expelled from the playoffs, with a potential delay for the Championship playoff final looming if the club is found guilty of regulatory breaches.

Southampton faces charges from the EFL for allegedly spying on Middlesbrough’s training sessions within 72 hours prior to their first-leg encounter, alongside accusations of failing to act “with the utmost good faith.” Before Southampton triumphed over Middlesbrough in the second leg on Tuesday, the club announced an internal review regarding the misconduct allegations.

An independent disciplinary commission is set to hear the case by Tuesday, May 19, just four days ahead of the scheduled playoff final at Wembley.

In an interim update released on Thursday, the EFL stated:

The commission will issue its decision as soon as possible following consideration of the relevant submissions and evidence.

• The EFL emphasized that the commission, not the league, controls the timetable and warned supporters that the outcome might alter the fixture schedule.
• They also noted that contingency plans are in place, which may include an appeal process.

Hull, already confirmed for the Wembley showdown, expressed frustration over the uncertainty surrounding their potential opponents and the risk of postponement. Ticket sale information was shared on Thursday, with a strong recommendation for supporters to consider their travel and accommodation plans carefully given the ongoing situation.