The NFL has announced that Sean Payton has been cleared to return to work following his season-long suspension.

The New Orleans Saints head coach was forced to step aside for his part in the bounty scandal, which saw players offered bonuses to injure their opponents.

A statement from league commissioner Roger Goodell said: "Sean fully complied with all the requirements imposed on him during his suspension.

"It is clear that Sean understands and accepts his responsibilities as a head coach and the vital role that coaches play in promoting player safety and setting an example for how the game should be played at all levels.

"We are committed to delivering football that fans love and the safety players deserve. Coach Payton agrees and I look forward to working with him going forward to do that."

The Saints finished third in their division in the 2012 season, with seven wins and nine losses, missing out on the playoffs.

Payton has recently signed a new contract, keeping him in charge of the Saints for the next five seasons.