Mamadou Sakho has been found positive for a drug test conducted by UEFA after Liverpool’s game against Manchester United in the Europa League. The defender has been found guilty of using an illegal substance called as a ‘fat burner’ and is currently facing a suspension.
Liverpool decided to release a statement almost immediately, stating the player will not feature for the club after an agreement was arrived upon by mutual consent. Jurgen Klopp played Kolo Toure in defence yesterday in place of the Frenchman during their 2-2 draw with Newcastle United.
Klopp was asked about the situation with Sakho and how it will affect the club. Speaking after the game he said, “It is not the easiest situation that is for sure. All we can say about this, we will say when we know more, next week probably.”
Sakho might be facing a ban of up to 12 months if UEFA find him guilty. The test has not been completed as the player is allowed to submit two samples for the record. Sample ‘A’ has come out as positive for the substance but UEFA are yet to conclude their investigation as sample ‘B’ is pending analysis.
Klopp has said he hasn’t spoken to the 26-year-old regarding the issue. “I have only known since Friday. We went to a hotel and I haven't had a chance.' Liverpool struggled to defend crosses yesterday as they threw away a 2 goal lead on Rafa Benitez’s return to Anfield.
The German was questioned whether his side will be able to cope without one of their main central defenders but Klopp was not concerned “We have changed a lot of players in the last few weeks, a lot of centre-halves, so you can't say we missed Mama today.”
Sakho might miss the Euro 2016 to be held this summer in his home country as well as the whole of next season if severe action is taken, but players have received a 6-month ban as well for similar cases of doping.
The director of Sporting Integrity who was earlier in charge of the anti-doping committee in the United Kingdom had earlier warned players in the country of using substances like ‘fat burners’. This was the statement she made, “The fat burns because these supplements contain a form of stimulant. They are not regulated products. It's just too big a risk to take.”
