Granada star Dani Benitez has reportedly failed a recent drugs test and faces suspension for up to two years.

The 26-year-old winger was a crucial player for Granada's promotion drive during 2010-2011season, but has since struggled in the top flight. He has not started a La Liga game since last September even though he was in the starting line-up in the first four games.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Benitez tested positive for cocaine in a drug test done after his side's 1-0 victory over Betis last Feburary.

In that game, he came on as substitute in the second-half and just after 16 minutes on the pitch he was sent off by the referee after a rough tackle on Betis' Nono.

Having failed the drug test, AS reported he was facing heavy fines and La Liga ban by the Spanish Sport Agency for Health Protection.

According to AS the suspension could be up to two years although the Spanish newspaper cited fomer Chelsea forward Adrian Mutu's case, when he was suspended for seven months and fined £20,000 following a Football Association disciplinary hearing into his failed drugs test.

Chelsea sacked Mutu immediately after he admitted dabbling with cocaine.

Benitez, who is still uinder contract with his current club until 2015, was involved in another scandal two seasons ago after throwing a bottle at referee Clos Gomez during a game between Granada and Real Madrid. He was subsequently handed a three-month ban.