Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg has expressed his gratitude toward club chairman Steve Gibson following the decision to expel Southampton from the Championship play-off final due to a spying incident. The ruling, announced ahead of the match scheduled for tomorrow against Hull City, paved the way for Middlesbrough's advancement to the final.

Gibson played a pivotal role in uncovering Southampton’s unauthorized surveillance, which contributed to Middlesbrough securing their place in the crucial fixture. Hellberg praised Gibson’s unwavering support since his arrival at the club, describing him as “absolutely brilliant” during both challenging and prosperous periods.

Reflecting on the disciplinary outcome against Southampton, Hellberg said he was pleased with the verdict, describing it as a straightforward decision based on the evidence presented. The manager emphasized that the decision helped clear the path for Middlesbrough’s pursuit of promotion to the Premier League, a goal he is determined to achieve as a way to repay Gibson’s commitment to the club.

The play-off final against Hull represents a decisive moment for Middlesbrough, with promotion to English football’s top tier hanging in the balance.