Championship

The FLP Podcast: Hull, Bolton & Notts County enjoy Wembley success! Plus ‘Spygate’ saga rolls on

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast, Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL.

by
The Football League Paper Team
2 June 2026

The trio reflect on a dramatic week of play-off final action across the EFL, as Hull City secured promotion to the Premier League with a late winner against Middlesbrough, while Bolton Wanderers and Notts County enjoyed their own Wembley success to book their spot in the Championship and League One, respectively.

The ‘Spygate’ saga continues to develop as Southampton owner Dragan Solak has thrown his support behind manager Tonda Eckert, despite the controversy surrounding their dismissal from the play-off final.

Eckert also released a public apology to Southampton fans, in which he took full responsibility for the scandal.

Following their play-off final defeat to Bolton, Stockport County manager David Challinor has stepped away from his role after five years in charge at the Hatters.

Finally, the guys take a look at the relegated sides returning to the EFL, namely West Ham United, who announced that they are continuing with manager Nuno Espirito Santo for the upcoming 2026/27 Championship campaign.

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