Shearer and Lineker cite Marcelo Bielsa as they question Saints expulsion over Spygate | OneFootball

Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker have questioned Southampton’s expulsion from the Championship play-off final over Spygate, arguing a heavy fine would have been more proportionate.

The EFL said in a statement that an independent commission removed Saints after the club admitted multiple breaches, including surveillance of three clubs, for unauthorised filming, also imposing a four-point deduction for 2026-27 and a reprimand, with Middlesbrough reinstated to face Hull City.

Southampton had beaten Middlesbrough 2-1 on aggregate to reach Wembley, but were charged after a performance analyst covertly filmed Boro’s training before the first leg and erased the footage when discovered. A Tuesday hearing restored Boro to the final.

Lineker said he was shocked by the decision and felt filming with a phone has long happened, adding that although rules were broken a substantial fine would likely have sufficed.

Shearer, a former Southampton striker, referenced Marcelo Bielsa’s case that resulted in a fine and rule changes, and said he expected a large financial penalty rather than expulsion. He called the behaviour foolish, argued the fans will suffer most and said the appeal will decide what happens next.

Southampton have appealed, with a ruling expected on Wednesday. Middlesbrough’s final against Hull is set for 3.30pm on Saturday, although if Southampton are reinstated to face Hull the kick-off will be 4.30pm.

Source: Leeds Live