Granit Xhaka admitted using a forged Covid vaccine certificate during the pandemic while playing for Arsenal. (EPA Images pic)

PARIS: Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has been fined 150,000 Swiss francs (US$180,000) after admitting using a forged Covid vaccine certificate during the pandemic when he played for Arsenal.

The 34-year-old Sunderland skipper will not have to pay the fine provided he commits no further offences during a two-year probationary period.

"I was sentenced by summary judgment for obtaining a false certification to a suspended fine of 50 daily rates of 3,000 Swiss francs each with a two-year probationary period," he wrote in German on Instagram.

"I accept the decision and take responsibility for my actions. Thank you for the many messages of support over the past few weeks. They mean a lot to me."