Southampton have been charged by the EFL for breaching two rules ahead of their play‑off semi‑final with Middlesbrough. The club is alleged to have violated Regulation 3.4, which demands good‑faith dealings between clubs, and Regulation 127, which bans any observation of an opponent’s training within 72 hours of a match. An expedited response window has been imposed.

Under normal EFL procedure Southampton would have 14 days to reply, but the league has asked the independent disciplinary commission to shorten that period and schedule a hearing as soon as possible. The first leg takes place at Riverside Stadium on Saturday at 12:30 BST, with the return fixture at St Mary’s on Tuesday.

The rule against spying was introduced seven years ago after Leeds United were fined £200,000 for sending staff to watch rivals’ sessions, a breach that also violated the good‑faith clause. By targeting Middlesbrough’s preparations, Southampton risk sanctions that could affect squad availability and undermine their push for promotion, adding a disciplinary cloud to an already tense tie.

If found guilty, the Saints could face a fine or points deduction, penalties that would tighten their league position and complicate any comeback in the second leg.