PSV sack striker Reis over substance abuse

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THE HAGUE, Jan 24, 2010 (AFP) - PSV Eindhoven have sacked promising Brazilian striker Jonathan Reis for using banned substances and refusing to accept treatment, his Dutch first division club announced on Sunday.

"After an investigation, it was found that the Brazilian had used banned substances," read a club statement, without revealing which substances.

"Taking into account the fact that the player refused all forms of help, it was regrettably decided that the player would be sacked on the spot."

Following a break in Brazil this winter, the 20-year-old Reis returned to Eindhoven a few days late and "in a state of extreme fatigue", according to the club. Medical tests revealed he had taken illicit substances.

The statement said that PSV offered to refer Reis to a specialist clinic but he refused, prompting the club to fire him.

"Our coach (Fred Rutten) did a lot to help him," said Jan Reker, sporting director of the club that is currently leading the Eredivisie.

"But looking at the situation, we had no other choice but to dismiss him."

Labelled a "great hope" by PSV, Reis had scored three goals in 12 league games this season and netted four times in the Europa League.