REVEALED: Three Premier League stars ‘failed’ drugs tests during the 2019-20 season but therapeutic use exemptions meant there was NO punishment
- Therapeutic use exemptions allows certain players to use banned substances
- The three footballers who failed the tests were not hit with any punishments
- It was reported that a third substance used is part of an ongoing investigation
- Eight TUI’s were granted last season with five more also handed out by UEFA
Three Premier League players allegedly recorded a positive result after drug tests undertaken last season, it has been reported.
The footballers were found not to have broken any rules, however, and UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) allowed them to keep playing.
The Athletic claim that none of the stars in question were hit with punishments because they received therapeutic use exemptions (TUEs).
Three Premier League players allegedly recorded a positive result after drug tests last season
These exemptions allow the use of an otherwise prohibited substance or method and are permitted to treat a legitimate medical condition.
Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, as it is commonly traded as, was reportedly identified as one of the banned substances a player had tested positive for.
It has been proven to increase an individual’s ability to pay attention, and can also control behaviour problems. It is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The footballers were allowed to continue playing by UK Anti-Doping and did not break rules
The substance is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) banned list as it may enhance an athlete’s abilities.
WADA state that a TUE can be granted in the case of a ‘well-documented and long standing diagnosis’ of ADHD for up to four years at a time.
The Athletic also claims that another player tested positive for methylprednisolone.
A number of substances banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency may enhance abilities
This is a corticosteroid commonly used to suppress the immune system and decrease inflammation. It can also help athletes train more often and at a higher intensity.
UKAD have withheld the identity of the third substance. It has been claimed that this is due to an investigation currently ongoing.
There were eight TUEs granted last season in total – and five more were also permitted by UEFA for players in their competitions.
