Ex-FIFA official amazed by latest twist in Southampton spygate drama vs Middlesbrough

Southampton will be investigated by a “specifically selected panel” as the club conducts an internal review of Spygate 2.0 against Middlesbrough.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that he finds the entire saga “amazing,” given the amount of data available to football clubs.

The Saints are set to welcome Kim Helberg’s side to St Mary’s Stadium on Tuesday, 12 May, with the two sides drawing 2-2 in the Championship semi-final first leg the week before.

However, the fallout continues from before the first leg after someone believed to be a Southampton performance analyst was allegedly caught filming Boro’s training 48 hours before kick off.

Southampton’s CEO, Phil Parsons, has now confirmed that an internal investigation is taking place, asking for more time to conduct it, with the EFL accusing the club of breaching its rules.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “I find this entire saga amazing, given the amount of statistical information available on players and teams through companies like Opta.

“The ability is there, through recordings of television games, to watch individuals and team tactics. The EFL will carry out a thorough investigation, through a specifically selected panel, of the allegations.

“I have the greatest respect for the chairman of Middlesbrough, and I do hope that this matter can be resolved quickly.”

With Hayden Hackney a huge doubt ahead of the game, Boro’s midfield is massively weakened, meaning that the game could be won in the centre of the field.

As for the final third, exit-linked Morgan Whittaker is likely to have a huge say, having notched 14 goals and seven assists in 43 appearances in the 2025-26 campaign.

The Saints Leo Scienza is just as dangerous, if not more, but as shown by his performances against Arsenal and Man City in the FA Cup, he can bottle under pressure in front of goal.

Which team gets into the play-off final is likely to come down to the managers. Neither team could break the deadlock in the first half, so it could be a very narrow victory either way.

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