The independent panel described the delegation of spying tasks to junior staff members as particularly deplorable.
An intern caught at the Middlesbrough training ground informed the commission that he felt pressured to execute the surveillance.
Winnie noted that at no stage did either party raise any issue regarding his independence or suitability to sit on the commission.
He said that had there been any legitimate basis for concern, appropriate procedures existed for that to be addressed before the hearing proceeded.
Winnie acknowledged that removing Southampton from the competitive play-offs carries major consequences for English football. However, he maintained that the panel had to prioritize rules over public reputation.
"Professional integrity in these proceedings is paramount.
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My role was to uphold the integrity of the competition and apply the regulations fairly, without fear or favour, and that is precisely what the commission did," Winnie said.
The English Football League has been approached for comment regarding the panel's ruling. Winnie emphasized that maintaining public trust remains vital for the survival of professional sports leagues.
"The commission's duty was not to consider popularity, reputation or consequence in isolation, but to uphold the integrity of the competition and apply the regulations fairly, independently and without fear or favour," he said.
The attorney concluded that severe penalties are necessary to prevent organized cheating in highly lucrative athletic tournaments.
The decision sets a strict precedent for future regulatory enforcement within English football.
