Liverpool's Sakho facing ban as team investigates possible failed drug test

Liverpool centre-back Mamadou Sakho could be on the verge of a ban for reportedly taking a fat burning supplement that is categorized as a performance enhancing drug.

Though Sakho has yet to be slapped with a formal suspension by the club, a comment on Liverpool's official website states that the former Paris Saint-Germain defender will not be available for selection until the matter has been resolved.

"The player is currently not subject to any playing suspension. However, the club, in consultation with the player, has decided that while this process is followed the player will not be available for selection for matches," Saturday's statement read.

"There will be no further comment at this time."

Sakho was tested following Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Manchester United on March 17, according to Tony Barrett of The Times.

UEFA has stated that Sakho has until Tuesday to "request the analysis of the B sample as well as to provide explanations for the presence of a prohibited substance in the players' body," according to Rob Harris of the Associated Press.

A potential ban for Sakho could be a big blow to Liverpool's continental ambitions, with Jurgen Klopp's lot set to lock horns with Villarreal in the Europa League semi-finals.

Sakho, 26, has appeared in 22 league matches for Liverpool this season paired with 10 in the Europa League, forming the first-choice centre-back pairing with Dejan Lovren. Short a centre-back and with Martin Skrtel facing a race to fitness, Klopp will likely opt for Ivorian Kolo Toure when it hosts Newcastle on Saturday.