Sampdoria's Flachi tests positive for cocaine

ROMA, Feb 21 (Reuters) Sampdoria striker Francesco Flachi has tested postive for cocaine, the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) said today.

''The Rome laboratory has identified the presence of benzoylecgonine (a metabolite of cocaine) in the first specimen submitted for analysis by Francesco Flachi,'' a statement read on Coni's Web site (www.coni.it).

The statement said Flachi took a doping test at the request of the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) on Jan. 28 at Sampdoria's home game with Inter Milan.

A Sampdoria spokesperson said they would await the result of a second test.

Last September, Flachi was suspended for two months by the Italian Football League following an investigation into allegations he helped gather information for gamblers.

AC Milan striker Marco Borriello, who joined from Sampdoria at the start of the season, tested positive for the corticosteroids prednisone and prednisolone after a 2-1 defeat to AS Roma on November 11.

In Italy, first drug offences are usually punishable with a six to nine-month ban.

Reuters SAM RN2043