Xavier fails drugs test

Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier has been suspended from all football by FIFA after failing a drugs test.

The 32-year-old, who joined Boro earlier this season, returned a positive urine sample after Boro’s UEFA Cup match against Xanthi on September 29.

The Portuguese player must now await the outcome of a disciplinary investigation by FIFA, before learning his fate.

The former Liverpool and Everton player, who has also starred for the Portuguese national team, Benfica and Galatasaray, signed for Boro on transfer deadline day.

He is well travelled but could face a lengthy ban should he be found guilty of a drugs offence.

It is not known what banned substance Xavier has tested positive for, and Boro tonight said they would be making no further comment beyond a brief statement outlining Xavier’s position.

However Xavier is expected to make a statement tomorrow, according to Boro’s official website www.mfc.co.uk.

Middlesbrough drew 0-0 in Xanthi, a result which took them through to the UEFA Cup group stage 2-0 on aggregate.

Xavier has since played in the 3-2 Barclays Premiership win at Aston Villa, but he was not involved in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Portsmouth.