Southampton expelled from Championship play-off final, Middlesbrough to face Hull

Southampton have been expelled from Saturday’s Championship play-off final.

The Saints were due to face Hull City for a place in the Premier League.

But they have been kicked out of the play-offs after they had spied on a Middlesbrough training session, before their semi-final.

It means Boro will now play Hull at Wembley on Saturday with the winners securing a Premier League spot next season.

The Saints have also been given a four-point deduction for the 2026-27 Championship campaign.

“The EFL is now in discussion with all three clubs regarding the implications of today’s decision and will make a further announcement in due course. The commission’s full written reasons will also be published in due course,” an official statement read.