Middlesbrough's players returned to training on Thursday still uncertain whether their season may yet be revived as the Championship's escalating "spygate" controversy continues to cast doubt over the play-off final.
The squad gathered at Rockliffe Park for meetings and light training despite their extra-time defeat to Southampton on Tuesday night.
Southampton are currently due to face Hull City at Wembley on May 23 after winning the semi-final 2-1 after extra time.
However, the south-coast club remain the subject of an ongoing English Football League disciplinary process.
The EFL has charged Southampton with alleged breaches of league regulations following Middlesbrough's complaint that a person connected to the club attempted to observe one of their training sessions within 72 hours of the first leg.
One of the regulations involved, Rule 127, prohibits clubs from observing or attempting to observe an opponent's training session in the 72 hours before a scheduled fixture.
The case will now be considered by an independent disciplinary commission, which will determine whether any rules were broken and, if so, what sanction should apply.
Middlesbrough's players returned to training on Thursday still uncertain whether their season may yet be revived as the Championship's escalating "spygate" controversy continues to cast doubt over the play-off final
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No conclusions have yet been reached, and the full facts remain under review.
Reports have stated that Middlesbrough are seeking the strongest possible punishment if Southampton are found to have breached the rules.
Potential sanctions could range from a fine to a sporting penalty, although no outcome has been predetermined.
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Shea Charles struck late as Southampton battled their way past Middlesbrough | GETTYMiddlesbrough are keeping their players on standby until there is clarity over the situation.
Rather than immediately beginning their summer holidays, the squad has remained in training in case developments alter the outcome of the play-offs.
Southampton issued a statement earlier this week confirming that they had requested additional time to complete an internal investigation.
The club has not commented further while the disciplinary process remains ongoing.
The controversy has overshadowed Southampton's victory at St Mary's, where Shea Charles scored a dramatic extra-time winner to send his side to Wembley.
Southampton could yet be stripped of their place in the Championship play-off final if they are found guilty of misconduct following allegations that a member of staff attempted to observe Middlesbrough training | GETTYTensions were already high after a fractious semi-final played amid intense scrutiny.
Following the match, Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert ended his press conference after being asked whether he considered himself a cheat.
His club's communications director intervened and brought the media session to a close.
For now, Southampton remain in the play-off final. Middlesbrough, however, continue to hold out hope.