Mamadou Sakho is under investigation by Uefa for failing a drugs test after the Europa League tie at Manchester United last month.

The £19 million defender was informed on Friday that he had failed the test and the Liverpool hierarchy, including the manager Jürgen Klopp, decided he would not be considered for selection until further notice.

A Liverpool club statement said: “Yesterday, a formal communication was received from Uefa stating that they are investigating a possible anti-doping rule violation by Mamadou Sakho. The player will respond to Uefa on the matter.

“The player is currently not subject to any playing suspension. However, the club, in consultation with the player, has decided that while this process is followed the player will not be available for selection for matches.”