It would have been exceedingly tempting for Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson to respond to the Spygate scandal, but he has remained nothing until now.

Borough have been eliminated, resurrected, and then defeated in the play-off final for nearly two months, in what must have been a weird era for Teesside.

The defeat to Hull City ensured that Middlesbrough and Southampton remained in the Championship, where they will face off again next season.

Tonda Eckert was recently forgiven by head coach Kim Hellberg for his involvement in the drama, and Gibson has now weighed in on the situation.

Steve Gibson speaks out on the Spygate scandal.

The Spygate saga may have momentarily subsided, but as the Championship season approaches, the matter will undoubtedly resurface.

Eckert is currently under investigation by the FA, which will almost probably result in some form of punishment. While the outcome is unknown, he might face anything from a touchline ban to a complete ban from sport.

Middlesbrough have undoubtedly been striving to put the drama behind them by undertaking pre-season workouts in the Algarve, with the players putting in extra effort before the season begins.

Reflecting on the drama of the play-offs, Gibson told BBC Tees: “We’ve had some wild seasons at Middlesbrough, some amazing seasons at Middlesbrough, but last year was a little different.

“But it’s football, everything changes, and you learn something new every day.”

While Borough will desire a smoother 2026/27 Championship season, the division rarely allows for it, but is the club ready to begin in mid-August?

Gibson discusses Middlesbrough’s championship preparations.

Borough have already had a hectic summer off the field, with top player Hayden Hackney joining Everton after much speculation and Dael Fry moving for Birmingham City.

Kyle Joseph, Jeremy Sarmiento, and Myles Peart-Harris have all signed permanent deals.

Of course, Middlesbrough still needs to replace Hackney, and their success next season will be heavily dependent on finding a quality successor.

With only a month until the season begins, Borough fans will be wondering if their team is prepared for their encounter with Lincoln City on August 15.

“We’re not quite ready for the season, but when it comes, we will be,” Gibson said.

“We are quite busy. We have an excellent workforce. Kieran, Neil, and Kim are working tirelessly to bring in new players, and we are very busy with that.”

Given how close Middlesbrough came to promotion last season, there will be higher expectations, particularly as a top eight finish ensures a play-off spot.

With West Ham, Burnley, and Wolves anticipated to compete for the title, Borough will be among a group of clubs looking to steal their thunder.