Southampton ask EFL for time to conduct internal review into ‘spygate’ scandal

Southampton have asked to be given time to conduct an internal review into the circumstances surrounding the ‘spygate’ scandal ahead of their crucial Championship play-off second-leg tie against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.

It is alleged a member of Southampton staff was caught trying to observe a Middlesbrough training session last Thursday.

The club were charged on Friday by the EFL, who asked an independent disciplinary commission to shorten the response period from the usual 14 days and to list a hearing “at the earliest opportunity”.

However, Southampton insist it is vital they be given adequate time to review the matter and respond to the charge properly. The Championship play-off final is scheduled for May 23.

Southampton chief executive Phil Parsons told the club’s official website: “The club is fully co-operating with the EFL and the disciplinary commission, whilst also undertaking an internal review to ensure that all facts and context are properly understood.

“Given the intensity of the fixture schedule and the short turnaround between matches, we have requested time to complete that process thoroughly and responsibly.

“We understand the discussion and speculation that has followed over recent days, but we also believe it is important that the full context is established before conclusions are drawn.”

Saints head coach Tonda Eckert refused to answer questions about the allegations at the post-match press conference following the first leg – which ended goalless – at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

His Boro counterpart, Kim Hellberg, said after the first match: “It’s a weird situation. I couldn’t believe my eyes or ears when heard it, couldn’t believe it when someone told me for the second time or the third.

“But if someone makes decisions to go and try to cheat, that’s clear and it will be interesting to see what happens with that.”