Dutch international Frank de Boer believes his appeal against a ban for taking performance-enhancing drugs has been helped by the latest findings of a German scientist.
Barcelona star de Boer has so far been banned from playing in any UEFA competition after two separate tests showed traces of the banned steroid nandrolone. De Boer has appealed in writing and expects a verdict from European soccer's ruling body in mid-July. "I have been heartened by news that a scientist in a German laboratory has recently completed a study that proves readily available dietary supplements can produce higher than normal levels of nandrolone," he said. "I'm still convinced that must be the cause of me failing my doping test. I doubt UEFA will accept the study as proof positive of my innocence, but the more doubt there is about the whole issue of nandrolone testing, the better."
"I'm convinced that sooner or later I will prove my innocence and hopefully this study is a step in the right direction." Barcelona secured qualification for the Champions League next season with a dramatic injury-time winner in the last match of the season against Valencia. De Boer added: "I am still only banned from UEFA competitions but if my appeal is rejected, FIFA will confirm a worldwide ban from all levels of football. It is a scenario that fills me with dread."
Filed by Pat Nugent
