Hull City is exploring legal options for a direct entry into the Premier League after Southampton was disqualified from the playoff final. The club is now set to face Middlesbrough in the final at Wembley, a match they were not prepared for after over a week of preparation for a different opponent, according to talkSPORT.

Legal Consultation and Training Disruption

"Our lawyers think we should enter the Premier League directly. They are currently reviewing the case, so we can't say much more. The situation is chaotic," said Hull owner Acun Ilicali, as reported by The Mirror. "We've been preparing for Southampton for ten days. Our planning, analysis, and work have all been focused on them. The opponent changed just a few days before the final. Players have a free day today, so Thursday is the last chance for serious training."

Southampton was disqualified on Tuesday for spying on Middlesbrough. The club claims the punishment is excessive, though they acknowledge the rule violation. A tribunal to overturn the decision will be held today. If Southampton's appeal fails, Hull players will have only two days to prepare for the match against Middlesbrough.

Southampton's Disqualification and Future Consequences

Southampton has been found guilty of multiple rule violations by the English Football League (EFL) during the season. The club was caught spying on Middlesbrough before their semi-final match, which they won 2-1. Southampton also spied on Middlesbrough twice more during the season, leading to their disqualification from the playoffs.

The club will also face a deduction of points for the upcoming 2026/27 season, which not only ruins their chance of Premier League promotion but also complicates their start to the new season. The decision, made just four days before a match worth over £230 million in marketing value, has shocked the English football world.

Jakirović: We Are the Collateral Victims

"I can say that we, Hull City, are the collateral victims," said Hull manager Sergei Jakirović in an interview with The Athletic. "Nobody talks about us. We deservedly beat Millwall in two matches. We have proven everything on the field, everything is clear."

"The biggest problem for me is if they postpone the Saturday match. How can you keep players focused and concentrated after such a long season? When we beat Millwall in the semi-finals, it was a huge effort."