Could Southampton be kicked out of play-offs over Spygate?

The EFL is desperate for the uncertainty to end. But this is now in the hands of an independent disciplinary commission. The process is managed by Sport Resolutions, an independent mediation company. The panel is made up for three members. The chair is usually a judge, lawyer or barrister who is a KC or QC. They sit with two side members who are sports lawyers, barristers or mediators. Appointments are based on suitability and availability, especially in cases like this which need to be heard quickly. The independent disciplinary commission will determine the exact timeline - but this is never made public. But it is highly unlikely the play-off final could be rearranged. Wembley is booked up the following weekend, after which players will head off on international duty. So this must be sorted well before 23 May. The EFL has asked for an expedited hearing, while Southampton have argued they need more time to hold an internal review. The first hearing needs to take place sooner rather than later, as all parties categorised by the independent disciplinary commission as holding an interest must have the right of appeal - and that could include Middlesbrough. Any ruling from an appeal is considered final. EFL rules do not permit the case to be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Then there is the logistical nightmare of Boro potentially having to sell a ticket allocation at short notice. …