Anxious wait for City star

KOLO Toure could be facing the prospect of a lengthy ban after testing positive for a banned substance.

The Manchester City defender has been suspended following confirmation that a "specified substance" was found in a sample, believed to have been given after last month's Manchester derby at Old Trafford.

Toure has the right to request his second sample – given at the same time – also be tested.

The Ivorian would then get the opportunity to go before a personal hearing.

A City statement read: "He has been suspended from participating in all first team and non first–team matches pending the outcome of the legal process.

"There will be no further comment from the football club at this stage.”

Although "specified substances" do tend to be down the scale of drugs offences because the World Anti–Doping Agency accepts there are instances where credible explanations can be offered, they are still subject to a maximum two–year suspension.

It is believed City knew of the failed test on Wednesday, explaining Toure's absence from the squad for that night's FA Cup fifth–round victory over Aston Villa.

The only consolation for City boss Roberto Mancini is that Vincent Kompany is expected to be available for tomorrow's Premier League encounter with Wigan at Eastlands.

The hosts have pinpointed the contest as a must-win game in their pursuit of a top-four finish.