EFL requests Southampton observations over alleged spying as Marcelo Bielsa saga resurfaces | OneFootball

The EFL has requested observations from Southampton after a Middlesbrough complaint of alleged unauthorised filming before Saturday’s Championship play-off semi-final first leg. The case has revived memories of Marcelo Bielsa’s 2019 saga involving Leeds United.

The EFL said in a statement that it has written to Southampton, after Middlesbrough alleged an incident on private property by an individual linked to the club, which is being treated as potential misconduct. The League added it would not comment further.

Leeds were fined £200,000 in 2019 when a staff member was seen watching Derby County’s training from a public path. Marcelo Bielsa faced criticism, then gave a detailed 70-minute briefing on his analysis.

Rules introduced after that episode bar clubs from observing another team’s training within 72 hours of a match. If Southampton are found to have breached regulations, punishment could follow.

Bielsa later said he personally covered the £200,000 sanction. Middlesbrough host Southampton at the Riverside on Saturday lunchtime, with the return at St Mary’s on Tuesday.

Millwall and Hull City contest the other semi-final, with all four sides aiming to join Leeds in the Premier League.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk