Xavier protests innocence after drugs test

MIDDLESBROUGH defender Abel Xavier has protested his innocence over his failed drugs test and said he never ‘intentionally doped’ himself.

The 32-year-old Portuguese international last night confirmed his ‘A’ sample had tested positive following his side’s 0-0 UEFA Cup draw with Skoda Xanthi in Greece on September 29. Xavier’s ‘B’ sample will be tested next week and the player has agreed to undergo a series of further tests in a bid to clear his name.

Part of Xavier’s statement read: