Mykhailo Mudryk could face a lengthy ban after returning a positive drugs test (Image: GETTY)
Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has insisted that he has never knowingly broken any rules after testing positive for a banned substance.
It was confirmed on Tuesday that Mudryk had returned an ‘adverse finding’ from a routine urine test. He is still awaiting the result of a ‘B’ sample and could be hit with a lengthy ban if it comes back positive.
Mudryk addressed the news in a brief statement, which read: “I can confirm that I have been notified that a sample I provided to the FA contained a banned substance.
Mudryk has insisted the news of his positive test came as a ‘complete shock’ (Image: GETTY)
“This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules, and I am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.
“I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon. I cannot say any more now due to the confidentiality of the process, but I will as soon as I can.”
Mudryk has not featured in any of Chelsea’s last four matchday squads, with Enzo Maresca explaining that his absences have been down to illness.
He has only played 146 minutes in the Premier League this season, having been largely restricted to appearances in the Conference League where he has scored three goals in four games. He has also played twice in the Carabao Cup.
In a statement, Chelsea said: “Chelsea Football Club can confirm the Football Association recently contacted our player Mykhailo Mudryk concerning an adverse finding in a routine urine test.
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“Both the club and Mykhailo fully support the FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested. Mykhailo has confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances.
“Both Mykhailo and the club will now work with the relevant authorities to establish what has caused the adverse finding. The club will not be commenting any further.”
Mudryk could receive a lengthy ban from football if his ‘B’ sample also tests positive for any banned substances. Paul Pogba was initially suspended for four years after returning a sample which contained DHEA, a substance known to enhance testosterone levels.
Following a successful appeal, the ban was eventually reduced to 18 months and the Frenchman will be free to play in matches from March next year.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1989676/Mykhailo-Mudryk-drug-test-Chelsea