Southampton asks for more time to undertake review into spying controversy

Southampton has asked for more time to complete an internal review after being charged with allegedly spying on Middlesbrough’s practice sessions ahead of the teams’ games in the Championship playoffs.

Southampton says it is “fully cooperating” with English soccer authorities after being charged Friday with a breach of its regulations following accusations that unauthorized filming of Middlesbrough’s training took place.

The English Football League had requested an independent disciplinary commission undertake its hearing “at the earliest opportunity.” The teams drew 0-0 on Saturday in the first leg, with the return match taking place in Southampton on Tuesday.

The winner will face Hull in the playoff final at Wembley Stadium on May 23.