UEFA instigates disciplinary proceedings against Shakhtar Donetsk's Fred over alleged doping

Fred's troubles at the international level have carried over to the club level.

After it was reported on Tuesday that the 22-year-old Brazilian had failed a doping test at the Copa America, UEFA informed Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday that disciplinary proceedings have been instigated after a protest was lodged by Fenerbahce.

Shakhtar and Fenerbahce played to a scoreless draw on Tuesday in the third qualifying round of the Champions League, and Fred took the pitch in the fixture against UEFA's wishes.

(Courtesy: Fenerbahce's official website)

"Before the game, UEFA advised us not to include him but we had not received any official documents and this was just a verbal recommendation," said Shakhtar manager Mircea Lucescu after the match, according to the Guardian. "There is no specific statement on this matter for now and we are still waiting for the results of the B sample."

According to ESPN FC, reports in Brazil claim that Fred tested positive for traces of hydrochlorothiazide, a prohibited substance that can be used as masking agent.

The second leg of Shakhtar's tie versus Fenerbahce goes on Wednesday.