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Southampton spying compendium thread


Hyltons finest said:
This is also true. Boro guaranteed to play Hull would’ve been their mindset the full time
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Yep. Hull potentially wasted a bunch of training sessions preparing for Southampton. Whereas Boro knew its hull regardless

I honestly don’t care either way but I think the whole things is ridiculous. Rules should have been made with a punishment in mind. This process has been a joke.
 
Pantomime Mackem said:
Official EFL statement. Note: 1) they admitted it, 2) admitted also did it against other clubs.

An Independent Disciplinary Commission has today expelled Southampton from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other Clubs’ training.

In addition, the Club has received a four-point deduction that will be applied to the 2026/27 Championship table, alongside a reprimand in respect of all the charges.

The effect of today’s order is that Middlesbrough are reinstated into the 2026 Play-Offs and will proceed to the Play-Off Final against Hull City. The final remains scheduled for Saturday 23 May, with the kick-off time to be confirmed.

Southampton was first charged on Friday 8 May, with further charges issued on Sunday 17 May in relation to additional breaches during the 2025/26 season. Those additional charges arose from matters identified after the initial proceedings involving Middlesbrough were initiated.

Southampton admitted breaches of Regulations requiring Clubs to act with the utmost good faith and prohibiting the observation of another Club’s training session within 72 hours of a scheduled match. The admitted breaches concern fixtures against Oxford United in December 2025, Ipswich Town in April 2026 and Middlesbrough in May 2026.

Southampton has a right to appeal the Commission’s decision in accordance with EFL Regulations and the parties are working to try and resolve any appeal on Wednesday 20 May. Subject to the outcome, it could result in a further change to Saturday’s fixture.

The EFL is now in discussion with all three Clubs regarding the implications of today’s decision and will make a further announcement in due course.

The Commission’s full written reasons will also be published in due course.
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If Southampton were up for cheating you could see why they spied on Boro and Ipswich. However, why lowly Oxford unless they spied on every team?
 
This whole punishment feels like a slightly harsh red card.

It's certainly the nuclear option but ultimately, don't give the referee (or the EFL) a decision to make and you won't get stung. No-one to blame but themselves.

(Selfishly delighted as I can't see Hull or Boro doing much next year in the Prem.)
 
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