The 23-year-old was banned last month pending an FA investigation after failing a test for a non-performance enhancing substance.

And the probable six-month suspension would come into force if the inquiry finds him guilty of wrongdoing.

It is not yet known what McCarey is accused of taking, but he strenuously denies the allegation.

The matter also impacts on Kenny Jackett's plans for next season, with Carl Ikeme his only first-team goalkeeper as things stand.

That is because talks with Tomasz Kuszczak are ongoing over a new deal.

An FA spokesman said of its drug test procedures: "Any player who tests positive for a social drug out of competition is charged and subject to a sanction which ordinarily includes a suspension from all football activity for a period of up to six months for a first-time offence.

"The FA, supported by all the football stakeholders, recognise the issues that social drugs may cause and choose to go beyond the WADA Code by proactively testing all samples for social drugs, irrespective of whether the tests are conducted in or out of competition."

Wolves last month said they were 'extremely disappointed and concerned' that McCarey had failed a drugs test.

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And team-mate Dave Edwards leapt to McCarey's defence, hailing him as a model professional.

The club will not comment until the FA investigation has concluded.

McCarey has a year left on his contract and has seven first-team appearances under his belt.

He has been with Wolves since January 2010 and spent time on loan at Walsall, AFC Telford United and York City.

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He was one of three footballers revealed banned for failing drugs tests on the same weekend last month, as well as Hull City's Jake Livermore and Sheffield United's Jose Baxter.

Meanwhile, Wolves have announced a series of pre-season friendlies for their under-21 team, all away from home.

Scott Sellars' squad will face Corby Town on July 18 at 3pm, followed by travelling to take on Nuneaton on July 22 (7.30pm).

A game against Gloucester City on July 25 (3pm) will take place at Evesham before a trip to face Margate – whose chairman Bob Laslett is a former Wolves director – on August 1 at 3pm.

The final fixture sees them go to Rhyl on August 4, kick-off 7.30pm.

Another game is likely to be scheduled for July 28, the same day Wolves host Villa at Molineux.