HARTLEPOOL UNITED have been fined £25,000 by the FA and their former chief executive Russ Green fined £10,000 and banned from football for a year.

Pools and Green were charged in May with breaking FA rules regarding payments to agents, with the signings of Padraig Amond, Lewis Alessandra and Nicky Deverdics in summer 2016 under scrutiny.

Green had admitted three charges, while the club denied four charges and admitted two.

The FA investigation stems from payments made to agents during the transfers, which were not documented or listed on paperwork submitted to the FA.

While there were fears Pools could have had points deducted going into the new National League season, the club is considering an appeal against the fine.

A club statement read: "Whilst this sanction is really tough to take bearing in mind that the breaches of regulations occurred under a previous regime, the Club fully respects the process which has been completed by The FA.

“To make it clear, all paperwork including the denial of charges was submitted prior to the change in ownership and it is to our regret that we had no control over proceedings.

“We will take some time to consider the written details of the decision but would like to reassure the fans that this decision, whilst making us angry, will have no impact whatsoever on our ongoing recruitment drive or on the running of the Club.

“Chairman Raj Singh and Club President Jeff Stelling have already committed significant funds in order to clear up the many issues that we inherited and this will be added to that list.

“We are looking forward to finalising the clearing of all old issues and concentrating fully on building a very positive future for Pools and working to reward all supporters for their loyalty and commitment.

“Once again, we would like to thank all supporters for their fantastic backing and all we ask is that you continue to get behind us so that together we can build a Club we can all be proud of.’’

Green is currently employed by Rochdale. They recently issued a statement giving their full backing and support to their chief executive.

They have issued a statement, which reads: “The implications of the FA’s decision are now being considered by the club. We will not be making any further comment.’’