Ex-Red facing life ban

Last updated : 18 October 2005 By Al Campbell

Xavier, who was brought to Anfield from Everton by Gerard Houllier, was banned from football by FIFA yesterday after he failed a drugs test.

The Portugese defender who now plays for Middlesbrough tested positive after a UEFA Cup game with Xanthi on September 29th. Xavier denies taking an illegal substance but must now wait for the outcome of a disciplinary investigation by FIFA.