Saints have ended their internal investigation following an exposé by the Daily Telegraph concerning assistant manager Eric Black after concluding “there is no evidence of any wrongdoing.”

The Telegraph ran a substantial story and had video footage of Black meeting with an agent as part of its investigations into alleged wrongdoing in professional football.

However, there were no clear allegations made against Black at the time, or in subsequent requests from the club.

That has led Saints to end their own investigation.

The club issued a statement saying: “Southampton Football Club can confirm that it has closed its internal investigation into allegations made by The Telegraph against First Team Assistant Manager Eric Black.

“Despite numerous requests to provide the club with any evidence relating to the allegation against Mr Black, none has been forthcoming.

“There is no evidence of any wrongdoing, and as such, the club now considers the matter closed.

“Eric Black retains the full support of Southampton Football Club.”