The British government has ordered a probe into Premier League doping claims whilst the clubs have come out to deny the allegations.
Each of Leicester, Chelsea, and Arsenal have issued statements over the ‘false’ story that named them in the scandal.
The Sunday Times ran a report alleging that an Irish-born doctor prescribed performance-enhancing drugs to players, including EPO, human growth hormone and steroids.
The doctor has since refuted the reports.
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However, a British minister has ordered an urgent investigation into the matter.
“Sports fans are entitled to be sure that what they are watching is true and fair with all athletes competing on a level playing field,” Culture, Media and Sport Secretary John Whittingdale said.
“I have asked for there to be an urgent independent investigation into what action was taken when these allegations were first received and what more needs to be done to ensure that British sport remains clean.
“If it becomes clear that stronger criminal sanctions are needed, then we will not hesitate to act.”
Each of the clubs have come out strongly though to deny any wrongdoing on their part.
Leicester City:
“Leicester City Football Club is extremely disappointed that The Sunday Times has published unsubstantiated allegations referring to players from clubs including Leicester City when, on its own admission, it has insufficient evidence to support the claims.
“Leicester City follows robust and comprehensive anti-doping protocols to ensure its full compliance and that of its players with all anti-doping rules and regulations.”
Chelsea:
“The claims The Sunday Times put to us are false and entirely without foundation. Chelsea Football Club has never used the services of Dr Bonar and has no knowledge or record of any of our players having been treated by him or using his services.
“We take the issue of performance-enhancing drugs in sport extremely seriously and comply fully with all anti-doping rules and regulations. Chelsea FC players are regularly and rigorously tested by the relevant authorities.”
Arsenal:
“Arsenal Football Club is extremely disappointed by the publication of these false claims which are without foundation. The club takes its responsibilities in this area very seriously and our players are well aware of what is expected. We strictly adhere to all guidelines set by the World Anti-Doping Agency.”
Whilst the clubs have moved to distance themselves from the allegations, the claims have dampened the run-in of what has been one of the most entertaining Premier League seasons in a long time.
The statements might put some fans’ concerns at ease but it doesn’t exactly mean that every player is innocent, even if the clubs are.
“No right-thinking person would argue that former Liverpool, Everton and Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier is the only footballer to have doped during the competition’s 24-year history,” it reads in The Telegraph.
“If Premier League footballers are doping, it is also far more likely to be on an individual basis than as part of some illicit club-wide programme.”
