Zurich, August 4

UEFA have thrown out a protest by Fenerbahce, who complained that Champions League opponents Shakhtar Donetsk fielded Fred in last week’s tie despite allegations of a doping offence against the Brazilian midfielder.

“The protest has been dismissed,” a UEFA spokesman said on Tuesday. Shakhtar Donetsk coach Mircea Lucescu selected Fred for the third qualifying round first leg in Istanbul last Tuesday, which ended 0-0, while admitting the club had been advised by UEFA not to include him. On Friday, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that Fred had tested positive for the masking agent hydrochlorothiazide during the Copa America in Chile.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has not yet announced any sanctions against the player or commented on the case.