Berahino served drugs ban

Stoke manager Mark Hughes has confirmed Saido Berahino served a suspension before completing his move to the Britannia Stadium.

It was reported that Berahino had tested positive for a recreational drug in an out-of-competition test in September while he was still at West Brom.

He served an eight-week suspension which ended before his £12million move to Stoke last month and Hughes has confirmed the club were away of the situation before they signed him.

"We are aware of it clearly - there was an FA disciplinary matter and Saido had an eight-week suspension, I believe. We were aware of that before we signed him," Berahino said.

"In terms of more detail you would probably need to refer back to his former club. We aren't in a position to give any more details as we don't have them.

"He had issues at his previous club for 18 months, which this is obviously a part of.

"As with all players we did our research on him before we signed him, but that didn't change our thinking at all.

"We are pleased with what he is producing and he is looking forward to the game tomorrow."

West Brom manager Tony Pulis also confirmed the ban at his weekly press conference, saying: “Saido served a ban while he was here but I won’t comment why. He didn’t play for me because he wasn’t fit enough."

Berahino's last appearance for the Baggies came in the Premier League game at Bournemouth on September 10 after which he was placed on a personal fitness plan due to being eight pounds over his ideal weight.

He made his debut for Stoke in the 1-1 draw with Everton on Wednesday night and is in line to face his former club on Saturday.

“Why wouldn’t I play him? He is in line to be involved. He came on to good effect on Wednesday and there is no reason why he shouldn’t be involved tomorrow," Hughes said.

“He is itching to play a part, although the way the game is going will determine whether he comes on. Most opposition players get some stick, and he will get some I am sure, but he is of the view that he is probably used to having some stick from West Brom supporters.”

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