Roma: Porto deny doping claims

By Football Italia staff

Roma’s Champions League opponents Porto have been forced to deny accusations of doping.

The case centres around Porto’s joint-top goalscorer Moussa Marega, who was expected to be out until April with a thigh injury, ruling him out of both last-16 legs against Roma.

However, the Mali captain has already recovered and is in contention to face Benfica on Saturday.

Corriere dello Sport reports his return has aroused suspicion in Portugal as its FA sent delegates to carry out anti-doping controls on the striker.

“They didn’t do normal checks, but they did exclusive controls on Marega,” the newspaper quoted Porto spokesman Francisco Marques as saying.

“The player and club have nothing to fear. As already known, he was treated abroad and the anti-doping authorities, who were informed, could carry out the checks at any time.

“His treatment didn’t require any medication or substances. We’re comfortable.”

Roma lead Marega’s side 2-1 from the first leg of their Champions League tie. The second leg will be played on March 6.

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