Lazaridis handed one-year ban for failing drugs test

SYDNEY, Aug 27 (Reuters) Former Australia international Stan Lazaridis has been banned for 12 months after failing a drugs test, the Football Federation of Australia (FFA) announced today.

Lazaridis tested positive in November last year for the banned substance finasteride -- a masking agent -- which was present in medication he was taking to treat hair loss.

The former West Ham United and Birmingham City player's ban would be backdated to the day of the test, which means he would be available to play for his A-League club Perth Glory in December, the FFA said.

''The tribunal made certain express findings regarding Stan's good character which FFA welcomes,'' FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said in a statement.

''In particular, it found that Stan had not taken the prohibited substance to mask a performance enhancing drug, but for legitimate therapeutic purposes as prescribed by his doctor.

''The problem related to the processes, which is why it is so important for all athletes to be vigilant.'' Lazaridis, 35, made over 50 appearances for the Socceroos and played his last match against Paraguay last year.

REUTERS BJR RN1519