DRUG ban Perth Glory star Stan Lazaridis has spoken for the first time since he was suspended for 12 months for using a masking agent.

The FFA last night revealed Lazaridis had been banned for a year for using anti-alopecia drug finasteride without permission.

The drug can be used as a masking agent for other more serious drugs, and a 12 month ban is the minimum for the offence.

"This has been probably been the most difficult time in my life for myself and my family," he said today.

"I want to thank Perth Glory, the PFA, all my friends and everyone that has supported me.

"I have always prided myself on being a fair player and have never once tried to gain an unfair advantage in any way."

He added: "I’m pleased that the FFA Anti Doping Tribunal gave me a fair hearing and made it clear in their findings that I have a legitimate reason for taking the medicine.

"The FFA Anti Doping Tribunal stated in their verdict that I’m not a drug cheat.

"I always had a fear that people would perceive it that way but I want to make it clear that I am strongly opposed to anyone using performance enhancing substances."

The suspension was backdated to the date of his test on November 27 last year, even although he continued to play for Perth Glory while the retrospective ban was effectively now in place.

Lazaridis, 35, will now be unable to turn out for Glory until Round 15.

"The process has taken some time but there were a lot of things to get through," said Lazaridis.

"I’d like to thank the FFA Anti Doping Tribunal again for the fair hearing I received.

He added: "My main aim now is to concentrate on getting fit and representing my club, Perth Glory, and hopefully coming back in a couple of months or earlier if that is possible through the appeal process.

"I want to repay the fans, the club and the many people that have supported me throughout this time - thank you."