Arsenal & Chelsea Release Statements In Response To Doping Allegations

Arsenal and Chelsea have released statements hitting out at a report in the Sunday Times which claims Dr Mark Bonar prescribed some of their players performance enhancing drugs, according to the Mirror.

Bonar works for a private London clinic and was recorded by undercover reporters working for the Sunday Times claiming that he had prescribed PED’s, including erythropoietin (EPO), steroids and human growth hormone, to around 150 top sports stars.

British cyclists, a boxing champion and cricket stars have all been caught up in the scandal but it’s the allegations aimed at Premier League players that has really caught the attention with Bonar claiming he’s treated players from Arsenal, Chelsea and Leicester City in recent years.

In the secret recordings, no specific names were given and the Sunday Times admit that it has no independent evidence that Bonar did in fact treat any Premier League players as they’ve been unable to verify the doctors claims.

There is also no indication as to whether the clubs had any knowledge of Bonar’s alleged relationship with the players but understandably Arsenal and Chelsea have moved swiftly to distance themselves from the allegations.

A spokesman for Arsenal is quoted as saying by the Mirror:

“Arsenal Football Club is extremely disappointed by the publication of these false claims which are without foundation.

“The Sunday Times knows that these allegations are baseless but has preferred to publish regardless.

“The club takes its responsibilities in this area very seriously and our players are well aware of what is expected.

“We strictly adhere to all guidelines set by the World Anti-Doping Agency.”

Chelsea have also released a strong statement denying any wrong-doing. A spokesman is quoted by the Mirror as saying:

“The claims The Sunday Times put to us are false and entirely without foundation.

“Chelsea Football Club has never used the services of Dr Bonar and has no knowledge or record of any of our players having been treated by him or using his services.

‘We take the issue of performance enhancing drugs in sport extremely seriously and comply fully with all anti-doping rules and regulations.

“Chelsea FC players are regularly and rigorously tested by the relevant authorities.”

These are worrying claims and understandably the UK Anti-Doping Agency has called for a full investigation in to the allegations but it’s important not to read too much into these unsubstantiated claims until more evidence is put forward.

Dr Bonar has a questionable reputation within the industry but his allegations still need to be taken seriously and it’s safe to say it would rock the footballing world if he’s able to prove he’s treated players from top clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea.

Tomorrow's front page: British doctor claims he doped 150 sports stars. Exclusive #dopingscandal revelations pic.twitter.com/CBMPHwy9Qc

— The Sunday Times (@thesundaytimes) April 2, 2016