Southampton's head coach Tonda Ekert has been given a six-week suspended ban after the Football Association concluded its investigation into the 'Spygate' scandal.
The Saints were found guilty of spying on the training sessions of other Championship clubs. The controversy erupted when a club intern was spotted at Middlesbrough's training ground ahead of the play-off semi-final.
The investigation revealed that Ekert was behind a "deliberate and premeditated plan" to gather intelligence on opponents.
Although Southampton made it to the play-off final, they were subsequently expelled from the tournament following the inquiry. Middlesbrough took their place, only to lose to Hull City at Wembley.
In addition to the suspended ban, Ekert also received a fine. The ramifications of his actions weren't limited to his own punishment; the club also faced a four-point deduction in the current season.
Throughout the investigation, club owner Dragan Solak continued to support Ekert, despite the serious implications for the team's prospects.
