THE EFL have provided an update regarding the scheduled Championship play-off showpiece involving Hull City and Southampton later this month – and have said the outcome of a disciplinary commission could result in changes to the final.

Southampton, who were charged by the governing body for breaching regulations last Friday amid the Spygate 2.0 sage which has rocked football over the past week, are awaiting the verdict of an independent disciplinary commission who are probing the events of last Thursday when a Saints analyst was caught spying on a training session at Middlesbrough – ahead of last Saturday’s first leg.

Southampton drew 0-0 at Boro and won the second leg 2-1 on Tuesday evening. But their place in the final could be affected, amid an ongoing investigation into their conduct prior to the tie.

It has effectively left Hull, who beat Millwall in their semi-final, in limbo regarding who their confirmed opponents will be in the final.

Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has led his side to the Championship play-off final.

placeholder image — Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has led his side to the Championship play-off final.

Boro are pushing for a stiff penalty for Saints.

In the wake of Leeds United being found guilty of spying back in 2019, a new rule was introduced prohibiting clubs from observing training three days before a game. In terms of punishment - a sporting sanction, possibly involving a points deduction or even competition expulsion – could well come into play.

As it stands, Southampton are set to face Hull at Wembley at 4.30pm on Saturday, May 23.

But the EFL have confirmed that changes could be made to the scheduling of that match, depending on the outcome of the hearing which will be held before next Tuesday (May 19).

Sergej Jakirovic with Millwall boss Alex Neil (Image: George Wood/Getty Images)

A statement read: “The EFL can today provide an interim update on the ongoing disciplinary proceedings involving Southampton following Tuesday’s Championship Play-Off Semi-Final Second Leg.

"The Independent Disciplinary Commission hearing will take place on or before Tuesday, 19 May.

"The exact date remains under discussion and is expected to be confirmed shortly.

"The Commission will issue its decision as soon as possible following consideration of the relevant submissions and evidence.

"As the proceedings are being conducted by an Independent Disciplinary Commission, the EFL does not control the proposed timetable.

"Notwithstanding this, the EFL continues to plan on the basis that the Championship Play-Off Final will take place as scheduled on Saturday 23 May, with the kick-off time confirmed as 4.30pm.

"Supporters should, however, be aware that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings may yet result in changes to the fixture.

"The EFL has a number of contingency plans should they be required, which also includes consideration of any appeal process, if required.

On the topic of ticket sales, the statement continued: “Hull City and Southampton will share further information on their respective sales processes later today.

"Sales will be subject to usual terms and conditions, and in the circumstances, fans are encouraged to pay particular attention to the terms and conditions.

"Likewise, supporters should consider the situation when booking any associated travel and accommodation.

"This decision follows ongoing coordination with the clubs to ensure that on-sale arrangements can be implemented as soon as practicable.

"The League recognises that this complex situation has caused concern and disruption for supporters, particularly those making travel arrangements, and will continue to provide as much clarity as possible.

"However, in these clearly exceptional circumstances, the league considers this to be the most appropriate course of action."