Positive doping test for Hibs midfielder

The Anti-Doping Commission has suspended footballer Clayton Failla after he tested positive to a doping test.

The Hibs midfielder returned an adverse analystical finding for Ephedrine in a urine sample provided last June during a Euro Cup match between Valletta and Hibernians.

The commission said ephedrine was included in the World Anti-Doping Prohibited Lists 2012 under the stimulants category. It is thus prohibited under the Malta anti-doping rules.

Failla's four-month suspension started on 20 July through to 20 November.

"All results obtained by Clayton Failla from the date of competition on the 25th June 2012 and onwards will be disqualified including forfeiture of any medals, points and prizes," the Commission added.

Failla is also ineligible to participate in any capacity with any sport organisation registered with the Kunsill Malti għall-Isport until November.

Ephedrine is a performance enhancement substance that has very serious side effects and is listed on the banned sports substances.

Medically, ephedrine is used for temporary relief of shortness of breath, chest tightness and wheezing.