The English Football League (EFL) has launched an investigation into an alleged case of spying by Southampton on Middlesbrough before they meet in the Championship play-offs.
The first leg of their semi-final takes place at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, with the return at St Mary’s on Tuesday.
BBC Sport has learned Saints’ performance analyst was allegedly caught recording Boro training and taking pictures of tactics late on Thursday morning.
The staff member was caught, told to delete the footage and leave the area, but the Teesside club were furious and later contacted the EFL.
An EFL statement released on Thursday evening read: “The EFL has written to Southampton FC requesting their observations following a complaint from Middlesbrough FC relating to alleged unauthorised filming ahead of the two clubs meeting in Saturday’s Championship play-off semi-final first leg.
“The alleged incident is said to have taken place on Middlesbrough’s private property by an individual identified to be associated with Southampton.