Middlesbrough reached the Championship play-off final at Wembley after an unprecedented saga following their semi-final defeat to Southampton. The club's Premier League dream appeared gone until Southampton's expulsion due to the 'Spygate' spying scandal, handing Boro a reprieve just days before the final against Hull.

Manager Kim Hellberg took a trip to Sweden with his son to reset after the emotional turmoil, while defender Luke Ayling discovered their Wembley return during bath time with his child. The team has had minimal preparation time, training only once since their semi-final loss, leaving them with little time to build match fitness.

Hull City faces a unique challenge, having prepared for Southampton rather than Middlesbrough. Both teams must navigate the bizarre circumstances, with Boro arriving at Wembley just a day before the match after a tumultuous fortnight that has tested their mental resilience more than their physical preparation.