Southampton 'spygate' appeal dismissed
Southampton will not play the Championship playoff final after its appeal against expulsion on spying charges and a four-point deduction for next season was rejected, the English Football League (EFL) announced.
Southampton was thrown out of the final after being found guilty of spying on semi-final opponent Middlesbrough, which will now face Hull City in Saturday's contest for a shot at promotion to the Premier League.
Tonda Eckert's side also admitted to watching training sessions of Oxford United and Ipswich Town during the regular Championship season.
In addition, the Saints have been handed a four-point deduction, which will come into effect next season.
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