Alan Browne back in Middlesbrough training after dramatic 24 hours before Wembley final | OneFootball

On-loan Sunderland midfielder Alan Browne returned to Middlesbrough training today after a tumultuous 24 hours in the Championship.

Southampton were expelled from the play-offs after admitting to spying on opponents on three occasions this season, including Middlesbrough earlier this month. According to Sunderland Echo, an independent commission's ruling denies the Saints a shot at Premier League promotion, estimated to be worth at least 300 million, unless they overturn the sanction on appeal on Wednesday.

Southampton were also docked four points for next season, with Middlesbrough reinstated to the play-offs and currently set to face Hull in Saturday's Wembley final.

The case began when Middlesbrough reported that a Southampton staff member watched their training two days before the semi-final first leg at the Riverside Stadium, in breach of league rules. Charges followed the next day, then further charges were confirmed on Tuesday after being laid on Sunday, 17 May. Southampton also admitted observing Oxford in December, less than a month after head coach Tonda Eckert took charge, and Ipswich in April.

Southampton's appeal is due to be heard on Wednesday, so the date and make-up of the final remain subject to change. Boro had called last week for Southampton to be thrown out and later welcomed the commission's decision before switching focus to Hull City.

Browne, 31, has made 43 appearances for Boro this season, scoring four goals during an impressive season-long loan.

Source: Sunderland Echo