Switzerland and Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka confirmed on Thursday that he has been given a two-year probation sentence. This follows his admission to acquiring a fraudulent Covid-19 vaccination document.
The 34-year-old footballer stated on Instagram, "I accept the decision and take responsibility." He added that the penalty includes a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs (£136,000) along with court fees, which he has already paid.
Last month, Xhaka apologised and acknowledged making a "mistake" in an Instagram post after withdrawing from Switzerland’s Nations League squad. He wrote, "I now clearly see that this was the wrong course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry."
Xhaka sat out four recent Nations League fixtures to provide evidence to public prosecutors in Lucerne, who are investigating a local doctor. He is due to return to action for Sunderland this weekend against Brighton.