Liverpool and France defender Mamadou Sakho fails drug test

Liverpool have released a statement regarding Mamadou Sakho's failed drug test but have refused to comment. Carl Recine / Reuters

France and Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has failed a dope test and been suspended provisionally by his Premier League club, France’s RMC radio reported on Saturday.

Liverpool were playing relegation-threatened Newcastle United later at Anfield.

Liverpool issued a short statement on the club’s official website.

“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 statement 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.”

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