Legend Romário Suspended For Doping

The source of the controversy appears to be centred around the use of a substance known as Propecia; a concoction designed to slow down the effects of MPB (Male Pattern Baldness, not Música Popular Brasileira - Brazilian pop music) and which had also been detected in a routine test on Marcão (Internacional) during the Brasileirão (Brazilian First Division) 2007.

O Baixinho (Shorty) has been using the product to avoid his bald spot from spreading into a more Monk-like clearance but the product is also used to mask the use of other prohibited substances such as the steroids used to overcome injuries and regain muscle mass wasted while players are in dry dock - although Romário has denied using anything illicit.

Speaking on TV Globo the player was calm but resigned to the fact that the ban could spell an earlier end to his playing career. "I'm 41 and at my age you can't go without playing for three or four months, so, the way it is right now, I may have played my last game, but I hope that things will be cleared up and people should know there's nothing nasty behind it", he explained.

Just in case he's called for further reference urine and blood tests, Romário has admitted that he's stopped using Propecia - and showed that his sense of humour is still intact. "I've stopped using the product, even if it means that my hair starts falling out again", he ended with a resigned smile - and hope for a speedy and positive resolution to the confusion.