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Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho was sensationally cleared of a doping violation by UEFA and insisted: “I knew I had done nothing wrong.”

The French centre-back, who has been in limbo for the past three months, can't wait to resume his Reds career after the governing body dropped the case against him.

UEFA released a statement saying the case had been “dismissed” - some 24 hours after the disciplinary hearing had been held at Paris's Pullman Hotel.

“I am happy that this is finally over,” Sakho said.

“It’s been a difficult time for me but I knew I had done nothing wrong.

“I am looking forward to getting back in the team and playing again.”

The news is a major boost for Liverpool, who had feared the prospect of Sakho being hit with anything up to a two-year ban.

A club statement read: “Liverpool Football Club welcomes today’s decision from UEFA to dismiss the case against Mamadou Sakho, confirming that he did not commit any doping violation.

“We are pleased for Mamadou that he can now resume his playing career.”

Sakho was accused in April of taking a 'fat burner' off the banned list following Liverpool’s Europa League clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The £18million defender served a provisional 30-day ban while UEFA collected evidence but that expired in late May.

Sakho, who was adamant he hadn't broken doping rules, finally appeared before the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body in Paris on Thursday.

He was represented by world renowned sports lawyer Mike Morgan, who is an expert in doping related litigation.

The ECHO understands that nobody from WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) turned up to give evidence in person.

Both Sakho and his club must now decide whether to take legal action in light of the decision.

The former Paris Saint-Germain captain missed the last eight matches of last season, including May’s Europa League final defeat against Sevilla in Basel.

The failed test also cost him his place in the France squad for the European Championship in his homeland, while sponsors Nike suspended their relationship with him.