'Terrible' - Expert: I've had many dealings with the FA and this is how they'll handle Southampton spygate

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(Credit: Imago) Mon 18 May 2026 15:41, UK Southampton look set to “get away with” their spygate investigation with the worst outcome likely to be a hefty fine rather than any sporting puishment.The EFL released a statement explaining that the playoff final could be postponed while the investigation is ongoing, but the FA are keen to go ahead with Southampton involved.That will come at Middlesbrough’s expense, although Kim Hellberg’s side remain in training in case they are called upon to replace their rivals in the showpiece event.Former Man United assistant manager Mick Brown told Football Insider that he has no faith in the FA to make the right decision, with a “relatively small” fine most likely.This comes amid ongoing suggestions that the Saints could be removed from the playoffs and even a points decoction, but those outcomes are highly unlikely.BREAKING: Southampton charged with breaching EFL regulations after allegation of unauthorised filming of Middlesbrough's training session prior to play-off first leg 🚨 pic.twitter.com/bINZWc0gCs— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 8, 2026 View Tweet MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES What could the FA do to punish Southampton?Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider on 18 May that Southampton could receive a points deduction alongside a significant fine if guilty.The penalty could be worth up to £1million as well as a six-point deduction, but there have been suggestions that the punishment would be seen as harsh.First LegSecond LegPlayoff Semi-Final StatsMiddlesbroughSouthamptonSouthamptonMiddlesbroughPossession65%35%61%39%Shots1761715Shots on Target3073Fouls Committed7121519Corners111115Southampton vs Middlesbrough stats from both legs of the playoff clash.Following a similar infringement committed by Leeds in 2019, they were handed a £200,000 and a reprimand from the EFL, with Southampton likely now facing at least similar.“It’ll be interesting to see what happens with Southampton,” Brown told Football Insider.“Decisions have to be made soon, but I have no faith in the FA to make the right one or to make it in a timely manner, because they’re terrible in these situations.“When it happened with Leeds before, that should have set a precedent for them to base this around.“Now, Southampton have come along, and they’ve allowed it to play out for long enough that now they’re even talking about postponing the playoff final.“A fine seems like the most likely outcome if you ask me, and at the end of the day Southampton won’t mind that, they’ll pay a relatively small fee and they’ll get away with it.“Middlesbrough are doing the right thing, they’re staying prepared for every eventuality and the players are still training, but I would be very surprised if they get back in.“I am absolutely convinced through years of dealing with the FA, they will not go back on the status quo, they want the final to take place and Southampton will be involved.“If Southampton win it, they’re not going to take that away from them, they’ll just give them a fine and that will be it as far as they’re concerned. It’s terrible.”What really happened between Southampton and Middlesbrough?The incident which has now been dubbed “spygate” came as Southampton were charged with spying on their opponents 48 hours before the first leg of their playoff semi-final.One of The Saints’ analysts was spotted recording Boro’s training sessions, including gathering details on set-piece preparations and potential formation changes.That has led to suggestions that Tonda Eckert’s side gained an unfair advantage over their opponents, with a complaint immediately made to the EFL and FA.Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett echoed Brown’s claim to Football Insider, as he also claimed Southampton will be given a fine and allowed to compete in the final.An independent panel is currently investigating the Saints, although it is unclear when the final decision will be made, and the final is expected to take place as normal. 😇 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Saints Insider Access Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the South Coast.