Southampton are facing further scrutiny after the Football Association launched an investigation into the club’s admitted spying activities during the Championship season.
The inquiry follows Southampton’s expulsion from the Championship play-offs after the club confessed to observing opponents’ training sessions within 72 hours of matches.
The punishment has already had major consequences for the club’s promotion hopes.
Southampton were removed from the play-offs, while Middlesbrough were reinstated and will now face Hull City in Saturday’s Championship play-off final at Wembley.
Southampton have also been handed a four-point deduction for next season’s Championship campaign.
An appeal by Southampton against the sanctions was dismissed on Wednesday evening, with the club arguing that the punishment was “disproportionate.”
However, the ruling means the Saints no longer have any route to challenge the decision through the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The club later described the outcome as “extremely disappointing” while acknowledging the seriousness of the case.
The FA’s investigation will focus on identifying which individuals were directly involved in the spying operation and whether senior figures at the club were aware of or encouraged the activity.
While the English Football League was only able to sanction Southampton as a club, the FA has the authority to pursue disciplinary action against individuals, including possible bans from football.
Southampton admitted to spying on Middlesbrough before the first leg of the play-off semi-final, as well as observing training sessions involving Oxford United and Ipswich Town earlier in the season.
The incident involving Ipswich drew particular attention because both clubs were battling for automatic promotion at the time, with their league meeting eventually ending in a 2-2 draw.
The controversy has also affected the clubs remaining in the play-offs.
Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic described the situation as unfair and chaotic, while Hull owner Acun Ilicali expressed frustration over having to prepare for different opponents at short notice.
Despite concerns over the disruption, the Championship final will proceed as scheduled on Saturday, with promotion to the Premier League and an estimated £200 million financial reward at stake.
