FA opens Southampton investigation over Spygate

The Football Association is investigating Southampton's conduct after the club admitted to spying on three other Championship sides during the past season.

Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play-offs after admitting observing opponents' training sessions within 72 hours of a game, with Middlesbrough reinstated to contest Saturday's final against Hull City

Saints have also been deducted four points in the Championship next season.

Southampton's appeal against the punishment on the grounds that it was "disproportionate" was dismissed on Wednesday evening.

An FA spokesperson said on Thursday that they "won't comment further until we have assessed the evidence".