‘Painful for Saints fans, players and staff’published at 14:22 BST
14:22 BST
Hull City v Middlesbrough (15:30 BST)
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Southampton said their expulsion from the play-off final was an “extremely disappointing outcome” for everybody connected with the club.
“We know how painful this moment will be for our supporters, players, staff, commercial partners and the wider community who have given so much backing to the team throughout the season and we apologise once again to everyone impacted by this,” the club said in a statement.
“While we fully acknowledge the seriousness of this matter and the scrutiny that has followed, the club has consistently believed the original sporting sanction was disproportionate, a view that has been widely shared by many in the football community.
“We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to our supporters for the support, patience and loyalty they have shown throughout an incredibly difficult period.
“Southampton Football Club has a proud history and strong foundations, but it is clear that trust now needs to be rebuilt. That work begins immediately. The club will reflect carefully on the events that have led to this point, learn from them and take the necessary steps to move forward responsibly.”
The club added that it will respond with “humility, accountability and determination to put things right”.