Any charges against Mamadou Sakho for drugs use have been dropped after the independent UEFA control, ethics and disciplinary body announced that he is clear of any wrong doing.
After Liverpool’s Europa League round of 16 tie against Manchester United back in March, the Frenchman was called out of the Reds’ celebrating squad for a random drug test. He tested positive for ‘fat burners’ and he opted to serve an initial 30-day suspension sentence.
Fortunately, for Liverpool and Sakho, the ban was not extended. Sakho’s lawyer successfully argued that the substance should not be banned and that he didn’t break any drug laws.
UEFA released a statement:
“The independent UEFA control, ethics and disciplinary Body met in Paris and has reached a decision relating to the proceedings instigated against Liverpool player Mamadou Sakho, following the Europa League round of 16 second-leg match between Manchester United and Liverpool 1-1, played on 17 March 2016.
“The proceedings against Mr Sakho related to a violation of the UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations after the player failed a doping test at the above-mentioned match.
“Following a hearing with the lawyers of the player and experts of the WADA-accredited laboratories on this case, the CEDB has decided to dismiss the case.”
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While Liverpool fans may be elated by the news, Sakho may be somewhat disappointed as this drugs saga meant that he missed out on the Euros in his native country. He would have been an important part of a side on the brink of winning the competition in it’s entirety.
When you look at it from this point of view, Sakho has reason to be angry for how long it took to discern whether or not the substance he took was damaging and a slight on the good name a professional footballer should have. That being said, Sakho seems to have resigned to the fact that it’s taken so long but is happy it’s over.
“I am happy that this is finally over. It’s been a difficult time for me but I knew I had done nothing wrong,” he said in a statement.
“I am looking forward to getting back in the team and playing again.”