Story highlights
- Liverpool defender Mamouda Sakho investigated over anti-doping allegation
- Player left out of squad to face Newcastle United in Premier League Saturday
(CNN)Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho is being investigated by UEFA, European football's governing body amid allegations that he failed a drug test, the club has confirmed.
Sakho has been a key player for the Anfield club in recent weeks, scoring in two of its last three matches.
However, he was not selected for Liverpool's Premier League fixture against Newcastle United Saturday.
A statement posted on Liverpool's website shortly after team news was announced read that "a formal communication was received from UEFA (on Friday) stating that they are investigating a possible anti-doping rule violation by Mamadou Sakho."
"The player will respond to UEFA on the matter."
"The player is currently not subject to any playing suspension. However, the club, in consultation with the player, has decided that while this process is followed the player will not be available for selection for matches."
"There will be no further comment at this time."
CNN is reaching out to Sakho's representatives. The player himself has yet to comment.
UK based news agency, The Press Association, reported that Sakho has until Tuesday to provide a B-sample.
Sakho's Liverpool teammate and fellow central defender, Kolo Toure, was suspended for six months in 2011 after failing a drugs test while at former club Manchester City.
Toure tested positive for a banned substance contained within a weight-loss drug given to him by his wife.
Liverpool meets Newcastle United in the Premier League Saturday before traveling to face Villarreal in the semifinals of the Europa League on Thursday.
British doctor accused of doping 150 athletes 02:13
