Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho won’t play for the club until an investigation is completed in allegations of an anti-doping rule violation.
According to a RMC Sport, the 26-year-old Frenchman tested positive for a fat burning drug, a substance that saw Liverpool team mate Kolo Toure banned for six months back in 2011 while at Manchester City.
However, there has been no official confirmation regarding the substance found in Sakho’s system.
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.
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.
– Official Liverpool statement
The news comes as a massive blow for supporters who have praised Sakho’s recent performances alongside Dejan Lovren at the heart of the defence.
Liverpool face Villarreal in the Europa League semi-final this coming Thursday, with the first leg taking place in Spain.