Rhyl striker Andy Moran failed a drugs test last April (SportPix)

The player was suspended until 28 February by the FA of Wales, fined �250 and ordered to pay �2,500 costs.

Moran has blamed contaminated food supplements, with the FAW agreeing he did not knowingly take the drug.

"I was shocked and devastated, I have never deliberately taken any substance to improve my performance," Moran said.

"I would never cheat, as by doing so I would be letting down my family, friends and team-mates.

"Rhyl FC has treated me professionally and respectfully throughout this difficult time.

Academy: The facts about nandrolone

"The chairman has told me that the club is satisfied that I did not deliberately take any banned substances."

Moran tested positive for the drug after the Welsh Premier match between Rhyl and Afan Lido on 13 March.

A second 'B' test was also failed after the urine sample showed a level of nandrolone 55 times greater than the accepted limit.

The hearing, in which Moran pleaded guilty, took place on 12 July and the striker's ban commenced from that date.

However, the first public indication that anything had happened came when Moran missed Rhyl's two-leg Champions League qualifier against Latvian side Skonto Riga.

An injury would have ruled Moran out of the first leg in Latvia regardless, but suspicions were raised that something was amiss when the player missed the return leg.

The FAW, like most governing bodies in sport, has a strict anti-doping code that holds a player liable for failing a test, even though he may not have deliberately taken a prohibited substance.

"I think the penalties imposed upon me, both in terms of fine and suspension, are very harsh," Moran added.

Rhyl 1-3 Skonto Riga

"But my legal team advised me that by virtue of the fact that the banned substance was found in my system then, no matter how it got there, I am guilty.

"Irrespective of any blameworthiness on my behalf, I have decided not to pursue this matter further.

"I have acted throughout with dignity and I will serve my suspension in that manner.

"The supporters of Rhyl FC have been wonderful to me. I know that I am honest but it is important to me for them to have faith in me."

Moran, who missed the first leg against Skonto Riga through injury, scored an incredible 47 goals for Rhyl last season.