|
 |
| Romanian forward Adrian Mutu (front) escapes the
challenge of Italian defender Fabio Cannavaro. Mutu has accused
manager Jose Mourinho of lying about his fitness in a bid to prevent him
playing in a World Cup qualifier. [Agencies - File
Photo] |
Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu could face a lengthy
ban and the sack by his English Premiership club after testing
positive
for cocaine, it was
reported.
Newspapers said the 25-year-old Romanian had tested positive for the
drug at Chelsea's training ground last month.
The Football Association has so far refused to comment.
The Sun, the Daily Mail and the Daily Telegraph said Mutu could face a
two year ban if the positive result is confirmed by a follow-up test.
A Chelsea spokesman said: "We have no comment to make at this stage."
Mutu, known for a playboy lifestyle, was already in conflict with
Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho who has refused to use the player this season
after a loan-deal with Juventus fell
through.
Mutu, reported to earn three million pounds a year, cost Chelsea 15.8
million pounds when he was signed from Parma a year ago.
 But Chelsea were believed to be ready to write off the investment.
When Chelsea's Australian goalkeeper Mark Bosnich failed a test for
cocaine two years ago, his 2.5 million-pound-a-year deal was terminated.
Mutu, now reconciled with his divorced wife Alexandra, was fined two
weeks wages for claiming Mourinho was a liar when the Chelsea boss tried
to prevent him from playing for Romania in a World Cup qualifying match.
Mutus agent Victor Becali, who is traveling to London on Monday, said:
"We did not receive anything official until now. It was not a recent test,
it was done in September.
"A lot of people in Romania think this is Chelseas revenge on Adrian. I don't think so
because its not in their interest."
(Agencies) | 
Updated: 2004-10-19 15:55