Mykhailo Mudryk breaks silence after reportedly ‘failing drug test’

He has spoken out after reports have surfaced from the UK and Ukraine.

An alleged 'A' sample taken in October was reportedly found to be positive for doping.

Reports also state that Mudryk still awaits the 'B' sample and whether it confirms the finding of the 'A' sample.

The 23-year-old has missed the club's last five matches and has not featured since November 28, which manager Enzo Maresca has put down to illness.

Despite this, it is understood by Mail Sport that Mudryk has been unavailable for selection due to a 'suspected adverse analytical finding.'

Now, the player has responded in an official statement:

"I can confirm that I have been notified that a sample I provided to The FA contained a banned substance.

"This has come as a complete shock as I have NEVER knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules, and am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.

"I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon.

"I cannot say any more now due to the confidentiality of the process, but I will as soon as I can."

Chelsea have also released a statement, which reads:

Chelsea Football Club can confirm the Football Association recently contacted our player Mykhailo Mudryk concerning an adverse finding in a routine urine test.

Both the Club and Mykhailo fully support The FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested. Mykhailo has confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances. Both Mykhailo and the Club will now work with the relevant authorities to establish what has caused the adverse finding.

The Club will not be commenting any further.