Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho fails drugs test

23 April 2016 12:53

Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has failed a drugs test and will not play against Newcastle on Saturday, Press Association Sport understands.

The alleged offence relates to the Reds' Europa League second-leg tie at Manchester United and is believed to concern a so-called 'fat-burning' substance.

Press Association Sport understands the France international is highly likely to request his B sample be tested, with the deadline for that request set for Tuesday.

Sakho has not been suspended either by the club or UEFA, but it is understood that after discussion between the club's owners Fenway Sports Group, manager Jurgen Klopp and the player himself it was decided the centre-back should not play in the immediate future, even though he is still eligible for Premier League matches and Thursday's Europa League semi-final first leg in Villarreal.

Liverpool issued a brief statement confirming an apparent doping violation.

"Yesterday, Friday 22nd April 2016, a formal communication was received from UEFA stating that they are investigating a possible anti-doping rule violation by Mamadou Sakho," it said.

"The player will respond to UEFA on the matter. The player is currently not subject to any playing suspension.

"However, the club, in consultation with the player, has decided that while this process is followed the player will not be available for selection for matches.

"There will be no further comment at this time."

Source: PA