In a dramatic build-up to the Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final, Middlesbrough's manager Kim Hellberg accused Southampton of attempting to cheat by sending someone to spy on their training sessions. This allegation has led to Southampton being charged by the English Football League (EFL) for breaching regulations. Hellberg expressed disbelief and anger at the situation, stating that it provided a 'massive advantage' to the team that spies on training. He referenced a similar incident involving Leeds United's Marcelo Bielsa in 2019, which resulted in a £200,000 ($272,680) fine for spying. Southampton's manager Tonda Eckert faced intense questioning during the post-match press conference but chose to walk out after failing to address the 'spygate' allegations. The controversy adds significant tension ahead of the second leg of the play-off at St Mary's Stadium on Tuesday night.