22 May 2026 10:54:45
A few calls for Hull to be promoted straight away. But Hull came in bottom of the top six, a full 22 points behind Coventry and 7 points behind Boro. How would it be fair to promote Hull without giving Boro a chance? Although the punishment of Southampton was surprising, it has been admitted that their head coach authorised Spygate, believing that, worst way, they would be hit with only a fine.

We now know that the EFL is prepared to dish out draconian punishment, a move that the craven Premier League would do well to copy, which they won't, of course, if it's precious Citeh or Chelsea!

1.) 22 May 2026
22 May 2026 13:44:29
Probably a fairer way to solve the promotion issue would be for Hull to face either West Ham or Tottenham at Wembley, but it is very difficult to arrange with WC approaching. Just seen the Andre news. Fantastic! My pessimism is fading rapidly.

2.) 22 May 2026
22 May 2026 14:15:25
Sorry, do not agree with Middlesbrough being in the final at all. They completely outplayed Soton in the first leg, but their strikers blew every chance - that's a fact. So, whatever spying Soton did backfired.

Then Middlesbrough lost the second leg, which was all on the level, so why should the losers suddenly get a tilt at the £200 million prize when they weren't good enough?

3.) 22 May 2026
22 May 2026 15:59:43
I know what you mean, Barton. I think that's similar to my issue with it as well. Whilst I agree with bouncing Soton, maybe they needed to make this decision before the second leg was played? That way it wouldn't have felt so silly. But, like you say, Boro being beaten over two legs but still going through just feels weird.

Also, with this I do feel for Hull, who have been prepping for Soton and have suddenly had to adapt. Add to this, Hull had a better record against Soton than they did Boro this season to boot! I think the obvious outcome we all will now be cheering for is a Hull win in the final. ?

4.) 22 May 2026
22 May 2026 16:53:38
The only positive element of this messy situation is that Southampton have been punished for what appears to be institutionalized cheating. No room for that. After that, it gets difficult, with Boro prospering after losing the playoff. A Hull win would tidy up a situation with no precedent.

As for Southampton fans, they are the innocent losers, but they need to look to their club's underhand tactics and lack of morality and judgement. Rely on your footballing skill, not on trying to massage and bend the rules. Prem, are you watching?