Unwelcome news for the League of Ireland.
Reports are emerging today that an Airtricity player could be set for a major ban after testing positive for illegal drugs during the course of the season.
It's believed that the positive finding for an illegal substance emerged after a scheduled test last month and the as yet unnamed player has not featured for his club in the final few games of the season as a result.
It's understood that the drug found in the player's system may have been cocaine, and if the player cannot explain the presence of the drug in his system he is likely to face a lengthy ban for his indiscretion.
Previously the FAI banned goalkeeper Barry Ryan after the Clareman tested positive for cocaine in 2003
He was suspended for an initial 15 months, but on appeal the sentence was reduced to nine months.
The only other player to have ever received a ban from the FAI and the Irish Sports Council is Shane Grimes, who was handed down an eight-month suspension after testing positive for a banned energy stimulant.
Grimes claimed he had ingested the stimulant accidentally after consuming an energy drink called 'Jack3d'.
UPDATE:
The PFAI has issued statement this afternoon confirming that a player has tested positive for a banned substance and the drug involved was a recreational one.
They have confirmed also that the player will be contesting the charge but has decided not to have his B sample tested.
"Following considerable media speculation and reporting this morning, PFA Ireland confirms that it is representing a player who has been charged with an Anti Doping Rule Violation."
"The drug in question was of a recreational nature and the player has waived his right to have the B sample tested."
"The matter will now proceed to a disciplinary hearing and the player will be contesting the charge for reasons which must remain confidential."
"The player has a right to anonymity until the disciplinary process has been completed and we would ask all media, including those engaging in social media, to respect his privacy and allow the matter to reach a conclusion without further speculation or comment."
"PFA Ireland will not be commenting any further until all disciplinary procedures have been completed."
