Football’s world governing body, FIFA, has banned Ivory Coast keeper Sylvain Gbohouo over an alleged doping crime, according to UK Sun.

Gbohouo, 33, who is with his country at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon had tested positive trimetazidine, a heart medication that the World Anti-Doping Agency categorises as a stimulant.

However, despite being provisionally suspended ahead of the tournament, the Ivory Coast camp are hopeful FIFA would overturn the ban and will lodge an appeal.

The African country was said to have told officials that Gbohouo had been prescribed medicine for an eye infection.

The Elephants coach Patrice Beaumelle revealed that Gbohouo who plays for Ethiopian side Wolkite City has remained sleepless and had not eaten properly over the incident.

He said: ‘It’s been really difficult for the player. He’s been here since January 5 not knowing if he’ll be able to play.

“He’s not eating anymore, he’s lost weight, he’s not sleeping.

“I hope he stays with us because I think he has an important role to play around the team if he can’t be in the team.

“He’s a great keeper and an excellent person. It’s really hard for him and his family and we are all supporting him because his career isn’t finished.”

The Ivorian has been given 20 days to lodge a formal appeal.