Winger Leo Scienza expressed his devastation over Southampton’s expulsion from the Championship play-offs due to spying offences, calling the situation “heartbreaking.” The club's fans, he noted, “definitely deserved better.”

Middlesbrough will now face Hull City in the play-off final at Wembley after Southampton lost their appeal against penalties imposed for the ‘Spygate’ incident. The Saints admitted to three spying charges, including observing a Boro training session, which followed their 2-1 aggregate victory in the play-off semi-finals. Additionally, the club faces a four-point deduction for the next season.

In an emotional Instagram post, Scienza shared:

• “Disappointment, anger, sadness… It’s difficult to find the right words for what we’re all feeling right now.”
• “What has happened over the last days is heartbreaking for the club, every player in this dressing room, and above all for our supporters.”
• “This moment should never end the way it did.”

Middlesbrough, who lost 2-1 after extra-time at St Mary’s, were reinstated after an independent commission's findings. Southampton’s appeal was dismissed, eliminating their chance for a Premier League promotion worth at least £200 million.

Scienza lamented, “I feel sorry for every football fan, as well as the players and supporters of Hull and Boro, who were caught up in all of this chaos too.” He emphasized the sacrifices made for their dream of returning to the Premier League, stating, “This pain cuts so deep.”

He thanked the fans for their unwavering support throughout the season, stating, “You definitely deserved better.”

Phil Parsons, Southampton’s chief executive, criticized the punishment as “manifestly disproportionate” compared to previous sanctions in English football. Club legend Matt Le Tissier urged a focus on restoring the club’s reputation, highlighting the significant work ahead.