Southampton have today been consigned to relegation to League One after the Football League deducted the south-coast club 10 points.

The governing body launched an investigation into Saints` finances after their holding company, Southampton Leisure Holdings plc, went into administration.

Watch the latest on Southampton's plight after the advert

Find your club | Funny videos | Classic matches | Football forum

Southampton argued that because the club itself was not in administration, they should avoid the mandatory points penalty.

But the League today decided that the club and the holding company are "inextricably linked as one economic entity", and that the 10-point deduction stands.

As the holding company, chaired by ex-club chairman Rupert Lowe, entered administration after the League`s March deadline, the points deduction will take effect this season should Southampton avoid relegation.

However, if Saints go down anyway - they are currently four points adrift with two games remaining - then they will begin next season in League One on minus 10 points.

More great content on Virgin Media Sport:
Find your club's FREE highlights
WIN Champions League final tickets
See sexy sporting babe pictures
Play fantasy football for FREE
Sports site map