Ralf Rangnick has stated his players were late for a post-match doping test because they changed their shirts.
Hoffenheim coach says shirt change to blame for lateness
Hoffenheim coach Ralf Rangnick has explained two of his players were 10 minutes late for a post-match doping test because they had to change into fresh shirts.
The disciplinary committee of the German Football Federation (DFB) is looking into the matter after Andreas Ibertsberger and Christoph Janker both produced negative tests following their 1-1 draw with Borussia Monchengladbach on 7th February.
However, Rangnick has attempted to play down the matter, stating he believes it is common practice that players change into fresh shirts following matches before taking the drugs test.
"In the past, even the anti-doping expert said it was fine for players to go into the locker room briefly to get fresh shirts," explained Rangnick.
Common occurrence
"I've spoken to some of my fellow managers, who have said it is a common occurrence for players to change into a fresh shirt."
It had been thought a post-match meeting had originally prevented the pair attending the test on time, but Rangnick has now denied this claim.
"It is definitely not true that I called a team meeting. I didn't know that day who had been picked for the test," he continued.
If the duo are found guilty, Monchengladbach have confirmed their intent to lodge an official complaint regarding the match result.
"Monchengladbach are forced to safeguard their interest in the matter and are backing up their protest with this obligation," read a statement on the club's
official website.
