The Australian Professional Footballers’ Association last night confirmed that Lazaridis has been asked by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority to explain a positive sample.

Speaking on behalf of Lazaridis, PFA Executive Chairman Brendan Schwab said Stan’s case is one of a player having taken medication prescribed by his medical practitioners to address a recognised medical condition.

The former West Ham and Birmingham winger tested positive for the banned substance finasteride, an offence which carries a maximum two-year ban.

The former Socceroo's club, however, claim the 34-year-old was using the drug to treat a medical condition, believed to be alopecia, which causes hair loss.

Lazaridis last played for Perth in December, shortly after the drug test was performed. He was ruled out for the rest of the season with a reported groin injury after the game against Sydney on December 14.

“Stan has for some time suffered from a medical condition which has caused him serious discomfort," said Shwab.

"The medicine prescribed by Stan’s medical practitioners contains a prohibited substance under the World Anti-Doping Authority as it may act as a masking agent for other substances, although not at the levels to which Stan was prescribed or tested.

“In November 2005, Stan applied to the authorities recognised by ASADA for permission to take the medicine, which was ultimately granted in January 2007 after Stan had retired from international football and returned to Australia.

“Stan was tested by ASADA in November.

“Stan’s situation is simply one of unfortunate timing and the bureaucracy needing to service a professional athlete who plies his trade throughout the world.

"He has advised the relevant authorities since 2005 of his medical circumstances, and those authorities have accepted the legitimacy of his medical condition and the prescribed medical treatment."

He added: "Stan enjoys the full support of the PFA. With our assistance, Stan has engaged Senior Counsel to represent him, and will conduct himself in this manner in keeping with the high standards of professionalism and sportsmanship he has demonstrated throughout his illustrious career."

A spokesman for Lazaridis's club added: "Perth Glory FC will support Lazaridis through the process. He also has the support of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) and has engaged Senior Legal Counsel.

"No further comment will be made by Perth Glory FC at this time to ensure due process is followed."

Football Federation Australia have convened an anti-doping tribunal to determine where Lazaridis has a case to answer.