Liverpool sideline Mamadou Sakho after failed drugs test

Liverpool have sidelined defender Mamadou Sakho after being notified that the Frenchman is being investigated over a failed drugs test.

“Yesterday, a formal communication was received from Uefa stating that they are investigating a possible anti-doping rule violation by Mamadou Sakho,” read a club statement. “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.”

Sakho is in his third season at Anfield and has made 34 appearances in all competitions this term.

Jurgen Klopp’s side, who sit seventh in the table, host Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday.