EFL says Southampton could be kicked out of playoff final and raises possibility of delay

• Hearing over spying allegations on or before Tuesday

• Fans warned before booking travel and accommodation

The English Football League has indicated that Southampton could be kicked out of the playoffs and that the date of the Championship playoff final may be delayed if the club are found guilty of breaching regulations.

Southampton have been charged by the EFL for allegedly spying on Middlesbrough’s training within 72 hours of their first-leg meeting and for not acting “with the utmost good faith”.