Chelsea slam ‘too soft’ FA as Mutu gets seven months ban

CHELSEA last night accused the FA of being “weak on the issue of drugs” after Adrian Mutu was handed a seven-month ban following his positive drugs test.

Mutu, who was also fined €28,500, must first complete a programme of “education and rehabilitation” before he can hope to rebuild his career.

He will also be target-tested during his suspension, which was backdated to start on October 25 and will expire at the end of the domestic campaign on May 18, 2005.

However, that is shorter than the nine months previously handed out to Mark Bosnich, though the Australian refused to accept his guilt in a similar case, as well as the eight months given to Rio Ferdinand for missing a test.

At least it leaves the Romanian captain available for his country’s World Cup qualifiers against Holland on June 4 and Armenia on June 8, even if he would be very short of match-fitness.

But while Ferdinand missed a test rather than failing one, the FA were mindful that imposing a harsher penalty on Mutu, who had admitted his guilt, could encourage some players to refuse to give a sample.

The Romanian, who could have been banned for up to two years, has also embarked on a process of rehabilitation, with the FA’s approach being welcomed by the Professional Footballers’ Association.

Chelsea have nevertheless taken a zero-tolerance stance, already having terminated Mutu’s contract on the grounds of “gross misconduct” while reportedly considering whether to retain his registration or sue for his lost transfer value.

In a statement, chief executive Peter Kenyon said: “Chelsea are extremely disappointed with this verdict. We believe it is far too lenient and sends out the wrong message about drugs in football. It is also indicative of a lack of direction within the FA at this time.”

Mutu still received backing from his native Romania, with national coach Anghel Iordanescu determined to keep his captain within the fold during his suspension.

“I asked to Mutu to come with us for training to feel that he is still part of the national team of Romania,” he said.