The case is currently being reviewed by a disciplinary commission working under time pressure, with the play-off final set for May 23. The panel could dismiss the charges or impose sanctions ranging from a financial penalty to a sporting punishment that could remove Southampton from the Wembley final.

At the centre of the investigation is whether there is sufficient evidence to prove wrongdoing and, if so, whether the punishment matches the offence.

Southampton have been charged with breaching EFL Rules 3.4 and 127, following accusations that they observed a Middlesbrough training session within 72 hours of their scheduled match. Rule 127 was introduced after the 2019 spying controversy involving Leeds United and Marcelo Bielsa, which resulted in a £200,000 fine.

Since then, the regulations have been strengthened to explicitly prohibit clubs from watching or attempting to watch opponents’ preparations in the days leading up to a fixture.

The English Football League (EFL) is aware that the outcome of the case could impact not only Southampton and Middlesbrough, but also Hull City, who are awaiting the winner after defeating Millwall in the other semi-final. Fans, ticket arrangements, and logistics are all dependent on a swift ruling.

Southampton booked their place in the final after a 2-1 extra-time victory over Middlesbrough at St Mary’s. Despite the ongoing uncertainty, the club is continuing preparations for the Wembley final and has confirmed that ticket details will be released this week.