Oxford United have been deducted five points after a hearing into the fielding of Eddie Hutchinson, an apparently unregistered player.

A Football Conference panel in Birmingham could have deducted the U's 11 points - points accumulated when Hutchinson played - but opted for a far less severe penalty.

The deduction means United now have 31 points - five above the relegation zone and 14 off the play off places.

It is unclear whether the club will appeal today's decision.