SOUTHAMPTON LOSE APPEAL AS PLAY-OFF FINAL EXPULSION STANDS.

Southampton F.C. has lost its appeal against expulsion from the Championship
play-off final after admitting to spying on rival teams, confirming Middlesbrough F.C.
will face Hull City A.F.C. at Wembley on Saturday.

The League Arbitration Panel upheld the punishment, with Southampton saying the
decision is “an extremely disappointing outcome” for everyone connected to the club.

While acknowledging “the seriousness of this matter,” the Saints insisted they
believed the sanction was “disproportionate,” though they accepted the ruling and
vowed to rebuild trust with supporters.

The club also apologised to fans affected and said ticket refund details for Wembley
would be announced soon.

Meanwhile, Hull are reportedly exploring legal advice over whether they should be
promoted directly to the Premier League, having prepared all week to face
Southampton instead of Middlesbrough.