Friday 8 July 2016 22:07, UK
Mamadou Sakho will not face any further action in relation to an anti-doping violation after UEFA announced proceedings against the Liverpool defender have been dismissed.
The France international tested positive for a 'fat burner' after Liverpool's Europa League tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford in March, and served an initial 30-day suspension.
But that initial ban was not extended as UEFA launched an investigation into whether the substance Sakho took should even be on the banned list - and the governing body announced on Friday the case was dismissed.
Sakho's interim ban meant he missed both the Europa League final defeat to Sevilla and the chance to be selected for France's Euro 2016 squad.
However, throughout the process the centre-back maintained he had not done anything wrong and that stance has now been justified.
Mamadou said: "I am happy that this is finally over. It's been a difficult time for me but I knew I had done nothing wrong. I am looking forward to getting back in the team and playing again."
A UEFA statement read: "The independent UEFA control, ethics and disciplinary Body (CEDB) met in Paris and has reached a decision relating to the proceedings instigated against Liverpool player Mamadou Sakho, following the Europa League round of 16 second-leg match between Manchester United and Liverpool 1-1), played on 17 March 2016.
"The proceedings against Mr Sakho related to a violation of the UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations after the player failed a doping test at the above-mentioned match. Following a hearing with the lawyers of the player and experts of the WADA-accredited laboratories on this case, the CEDB has decided to dismiss the case."
Jurgen Klopp's side added in a statement: "Liverpool Football Club welcomes today's decision from UEFA to dismiss the case against Mamadou Sakho, confirming that he did not commit any doping violation.
"We are pleased for Mamadou that he can now resume his playing career."
