CARRY ON RIO

Last updated : 24 October 2003 By Editor

The FA yesterday scrapped the deadline they had set for Rio's punishment for missing a drugs test. The full statement reads:

"In the interests of all parties concerned and football in general, the FA will proceed through all of the facts with due diligence before making any decision as to what further steps within the process may be,"

"Therefore we will not be setting any deadlines as to when The FA will make any announcement concerning their decision on reviewing the evidence."

The Sun reports that Rio will be left out of the England squad to play against Denmark meaning he could have this hanging over his head until well into November. However he will be able to play in the next two crucial Champions League matches. And with Wes Brown pencilled in for a return at Christmas things may not be as bad as first feared.