Ben Arthurs Returns After Suspension for Cocaine Metabolite

Ben Arthurs has served his time. Now comes the hard part.

The Bangor striker, one of the most prolific goalscorers in the club’s history, has completed a three‑month suspension after an anti-doping test detected a banned substance in the aftermath of an Irish Premiership match in March.

The 28-year-old was quietly stood down by the County Down club in April. At the time, Bangor said only that they were "unable to provide further details" as an investigation unfolded. The silence fuelled questions. The answer arrived on Thursday.

Cocaine metabolite found after Glentoran defeat

Arthurs was tested following Bangor’s 4-0 defeat by Glentoran on 10 March. UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) later confirmed that analysis of his sample produced an adverse analytical finding for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.

Under UKAD regulations, that does not automatically mean a lengthy exile. The rules allow for a reduced three-month suspension if an athlete can prove the substance was taken out of competition and not to enhance performance.

Arthurs admitted using cocaine for “recreational purposes within a social setting”. An independent expert concluded the drug was most likely taken before the day of the Glentoran game, clearing the way for the minimum sanction.

With a provisional suspension imposed on 7 April, the clock has already run down. The ban is fully served.

Back in training, back in the spotlight

Arthurs has returned to pre-season training with Lee Feeney’s side and is now eligible to play when Bangor open their 2026-27 Irish Premiership campaign against Cliftonville at Clandeboye Park on 15 August.

It will be his ninth season at the club, a remarkable stretch in modern football. In that time he has climbed to second on Bangor’s all-time scoring list, a talisman in yellow and blue and a constant reference point for a fanbase that has seen its share of turbulence.

Now he comes back with a different kind of scrutiny. The goals will still matter. So will the response.

The Irish Football Association and the Northern Ireland Football League were approached for comment as the case became public. Their words may follow. The judgement that counts most, though, will arrive on matchdays, when a familiar No 9 walks out at Clandeboye Park and waits to hear how his own supporters choose to greet him.