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Spygate has dominated football headlines, with a decision on Southampton's alleged spying on Middlesbrough training sessions expected to arrive this week. Saints defeated their Championship rivals 2-1 in the play-offs, and will play Hull City in the Wembley showpiece on Saturday afternoon.

That's as long as they aren't kicked out of the play-offs, with the EFL having charged Southampton following the accusations from Middlesbrough. The Independent Disciplinary Commission will discuss the outcome, with a final decision expected to arrive on Tuesday.

But Southampton being removed from the play-offs isn't the only possible punishment that could be administered. Express Sport takes a look at the options available to the decision makers ahead of the verdict.

Southampton removed from play-off final

Middlesbrough have urged the EFL to sanction a move that would see Southampton removed from the play-offs. They believe it would set a bad precedent if Southampton are able to contest for promotion, having spied on their semi-final opponents. It would most likely represent the harshest punishment, but could also present some significant logistical problems.

Move play-off final date back

One of those would be a possible appeal from Southampton or the EFL, which could rumble on way beyond the proposed play-off final date of Saturday, May 23. Moving the play-off final would inconvenience plenty of people, including fans of both clubs, but it would give all parties a little more breathing space.

Points deduction for future seasons

If Southampton aren't kicked out of the play-offs, they could be handed a points deduction instead. When that would be administered is yet to be determined. It could be next season if Southampton aren't promoted, but if they do win the play-off final, it will have to wait until they're back in the EFL.

Ban for Southampton manager or staff

Meanwhile, Southampton manager Tonda Eckert could be subject to a ban over his alleged involvement in the saga. It was reported by The Times that the FA and the EFL are keen to determine what involvement Eckert and his coaching staff had in the event. If they're deemed complicit, the governing bodies could hand out a substantial ban.

Monetary fine

Perhaps the punishment doesn't have a sporting impact at all, and is just restricted to a monetary fine. It would likely be the most welcome outcome from a Southampton point of view, especially if they return to the Premier League and secure the millions on offer via the lucrative TV deal. However, it is worth noting that the panel can recommend any punishment they deem fit.