Middlesbrough have lodged a formal complaint with the English Football League (EFL) alleging unauthorised filming by an individual connected to Southampton during a training session. The incident occurred just days before the two clubs are set to clash in their Championship play-off semi-final first leg on Saturday.
EFL Investigation Underway
The EFL confirmed on Thursday that it has contacted Southampton regarding claims an "individual identified to be associated" with the club was filming on Middlesbrough's private property. The league stated it is now considering the alleged incident as "potential misconduct" under its regulations.
An EFL spokesperson said: "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 alleged incident is said to have taken place on Middlesbrough's private property by an individual identified to be associated with Southampton. The League is treating this matter as potential misconduct under EFL regulations and will be making no further comment at this time."
Match Context
The teams will go head to head at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, with the second leg of their semi-final taking place at St Mary's next Tuesday night. Southampton reached the play-offs with a fourth-placed finish in the Championship, while Middlesbrough finished one spot below them on goal difference after both sides secured 80 points.
Middlesbrough declined to comment. Southampton have also been contacted for a response by the Press Association.
Echoes of 'Spygate'
The alleged incident is reminiscent of the 'spygate' scandal involving Leeds United, with then manager Marcelo Bielsa admitting to sending a spy to Derby County's training ground before their 2-0 win over the Rams in January 2019. Bielsa faced fierce criticism and responded by delivering a lengthy press briefing outlining his coaching methods. The EFL issued a fine of £200,000 for a breach of its 'good faith' regulations, while also announcing a new rule preventing teams from watching each other's training sessions within 72 hours of a match. Bielsa paid the fine out of his own pocket.
