Middlesbrough accuses Southampton of unauthorised filming during training
EFL investigates misconduct claims ahead of Championship play-off clash
The English Football League is investigating a complaint made by Middlesbrough regarding alleged unauthorised filming by an individual from Southampton during a training session.
The EFL confirmed on Thursday that it has written to Southampton following claims that an "individual identified to be associated" with the club filmed on Middlesbrough’s private property prior to their Championship play-off semi-final first leg on Saturday.
An EFL spokesperson stated, "The EFL has written to Southampton requesting their observations following a complaint from Middlesbrough relating to alleged unauthorised filming ahead of the two clubs meeting in Saturday’s Championship play-off semi-final first leg."
The incident is being treated as "potential misconduct" under EFL regulations, with no further comments being made at this time.
Championship Showdown
Middlesbrough and Southampton will face off at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, with the return leg scheduled to take place at St Mary’s Stadium next Tuesday.
Southampton secured a place in the play-offs by finishing fourth in the Championship, narrowly ahead of Middlesbrough, who finished fifth on goal difference after both teams amassed 80 points.
‘Spygate’ Comparisons
The allegations bring back memories of the 'spygate' scandal involving Leeds United in 2019, when then-manager Marcelo Bielsa admitted to sending an individual to watch Derby County's training before their match.
The EFL penalised Leeds with a £200,000 fine for breaching ‘good faith’ regulations and introduced a rule preventing clubs from observing each other's training sessions within 72 hours of a fixture.
Both Middlesbrough and Southampton have been approached for comments, but the clubs have not yet provided responses.