Allan Stubbs: Don't be a dope like Rio Ferdinand

Dec 21 2008 By Mark Guidi

BACKROOM rookie Alan Stubbs has learned quickly there's far more to coaching than football.

The Everton reserve team No.2 admits one of the points he constantly hammers home to his young stars is drug awareness.

The English FA have stepped up their bid to rid the game of drug problems and Everton have made sure their staff are aware of the guidelines.

But it's not only the young who can fall foul of the rules - Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand copped an eight month ban for failing to attend a dope test in 2003 - and Stubbs demands his kids are clued up.

He said: "Young players need to learn about so many things and banned substances is one.

"They must be aware of the medication they are allowed to take and the stuff that could land them in trouble.

"In my early days as a pro we were never sure what was okay and what wasn't. We were told not to take Lemsip for a cold.

"Now the FA can turn up at 24 hours' notice to test players.

"If they refuse or miss it they could be banned for two or three years. It keeps lads on their toes."