FULL FA STATEMENT ON FERDINAND

Last updated : 30 October 2003 By Editor
Rio Ferdinand was one of four Manchester United players
selected at random to provide a sample for a routine test by
UK Sport Doping Control Officers on Tuesday 23 September
2003. The evidence currently in The FA's possession suggests
that Rio Ferdinand failed to supply the required sample
which was requested at Manchester United's training ground.

The incident was reported by UK Sport to The FA's Medical
Department.

Under The FA's Doping Control Regulations, "the failure or
refusal by a player to submit to a drug test as required by
a competent official" amounts to a breach of FA Rule E26
(see below) and this may lead to disciplinary sanctions for
misconduct.

One of the key responsibilities of The FA is the management
of its Doping Control Regulations and the disciplinary
process which follows any reported incident.

Following UK Sport's report regarding Rio Ferdinand's
failure to supply the required sample, the disciplinary
process commenced. Rio Ferdinand was contacted by letter on
Friday 3 October 2003 and will be interviewed next week.

However, The FA also has responsibility for the England
team. Bearing in mind the imminent squad announcement for
next Saturday's match, The FA held discussions with the
player, Manchester United officials and the PFA relating to
the selection issue that had to be considered.

In addition, following a suggestion from the PFA, The FA
also offered to meet Rio Ferdinand yesterday and today.

Given the seriousness with which The FA views breaches of
its Doping Control Regulations, the imminent England squad
announcement and the importance of Saturday's match, The FA
has concluded that it is inappropriate for Rio Ferdinand to
be available for selection for England.

Today's announcement follows Manchester United's press
release last night and discussions over the last three days
between The FA, Rio Ferdinand, Sven-Goran Eriksson,
Manchester United FC and The PFA.

The disciplinary process will now run its course. In making
the policy decision not to consider Rio Ferdinand for
selection for the England squad to face Turkey, The FA is
not making any judgement whatsoever regarding the player's
future England career. Just as importantly, The FA is not
pre-judging the outcome of any possible future disciplinary
hearing.