Sheffield United suspended Baxter immediately after the failed test in May

Jose Baxter will be free to play in Sheffield United's first game of the season against Gillingham on August 8 after being given a five-month ban, three months of it suspended, for failing a drug test in May.

The Football Association delivered their verdict after hearing from 23-year-old Baxter at Wembley last week and all parties have been informed of their judgement.

The midfield player denied intentional wrongdoing and said the traces of ecstasy found in his system were as a a result of his drink being spiked.

The authorities were satisfied Baxter did not have an underlying problem with the use of social drugs though the responsibility ultimately lies with the player for what is in their body.

Jose Baxter will be free to play in Sheffield United's first game of the season against Gillingham on August 8

It leaves Baxter free to train and play though another offence would lead to tough sanctions.

Sheffield United suspended Baxter immediately after he failed the test in May and he missed the club's League One play-off semi-final defeat against Swindon Town as a result. It is considered he has already served the two-month non-suspended part of his punishment.

New Blades manager Nigel Adkins showed his support for Baxter by joining his player at the hearing at Wembley last week.

Baxter became the youngest player in Everton's history when he made his debut against Blackburn at the age of 16 years, 191 days in 2008.