FORMER IRELAND U21 international Aaron McCarey has been given four-month suspended ban for failing a drugs test.

The punishment has been back-dated to 21 April — when the original suspension began — with the remaining time suspended for two years, meaning McCarey is now free to play again.

The 23-year-old Wolves goalkeeper from Monaghan, who tested positive for a non-performance enhancing substance, denies any deliberate wrongdoing.

“I can categorically state I genuinely have no idea how the trace of the drug entered my system.

“However, there is no disputing the tests which were carried out and I have accepted full responsibility and I apologise.

“This has been a very difficult time for me and my family, and I intend to learn from this experience and improve myself both as a person and as a professional footballer.”

McCarey has also been fined by the FA and will have to pay for the costs of his hearing, while he will also be required to complete a tailored course of education and counselling in accordance with the association’s ruling.

The player has 10 caps at Ireland U21 level and has made five appearances for Wolves. He was also called up to the Irish senior squad for a friendly against Spain in 2010.

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