Drug claims investigated

Stan Collymore's foot balling future hangs in the balance as his agent, his club and football's governing bodies examine allegations of drug taking.

Collymore's agent Paul Stretford will speak to Aston Villa, the Football Association and the Professional Footballers' Association today about claims that the England striker snorted cocaine and smoked marijuana.

Stretford hasn't been able to talk the 28-year-old Villa star since allegations were published that Collymore took drugs while he was being treated for depression at an exclusive London clinic.

The FA will investigate the claims and Collymore's lawyers are preparing to act over the accusations made in the News of the World.

Stretford said: "I have been made aware of the allegations contained in a Sunday tabloid newspaper.

"At this moment in time, I have been unable to speak with Stan. However, I have contacted his lawyer regarding the serious nature of the allegations involved.

"He has advised me that upon his return from a trip abroad later this week he will study the article and the allegations made and thereafter advise Stan and take whatever legal steps are necessary.

Collymore is alleged to have smoked cannabis on a night out with two other patients while he was undergoing treatment for clinical depression at the Priory Clinic in Roehampton, south west London. He is also alleged to have taken cocaine earlier in his career.

Spokesman Steve Double said the FA would investigate.