The disqualification of Southampton from the Championship play-off final has sent shockwaves through English football. Middlesbrough FC is poised to replace Southampton, while Hull City, the other finalist, is exploring options to avoid playing the match altogether.
Details: Reports from Alex Crook indicate that Hull City is consulting with legal advisers to investigate the possibility of securing direct promotion to the Premier League without contesting the final. The club has expressed discontent with facing Middlesbrough, having invested over a week in preparation for a match against Southampton FC.
As the situation unfolds, Hull City is awaiting the outcome of Southampton’s appeal regarding the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision that led to their disqualification. Meanwhile, Hull’s squad was given Wednesday, May 20, off as they seek clarity on their next opponent in the Championship play-off final.
Middlesbrough is currently scheduled to replace Southampton in the Championship play-off final, which is set for Saturday, May 23.