Clayton Failla is set to return for Hibernians later on this month after it was revealed yesterday that the National Anti-Doping Commission had reduced his doping ban by a month.

The Hibernians winger last month was handed a four-month suspension by the Kunsill Malti għall-Isport Anti-Doping Commission after testing positive in his team’s Euro Cup match against Valletta on June 25.

However, the 26-year-old launched an appeal against the commission’s decision and the Appeals’ Board decided to trim Failla’s suspension by four weeks.

The latest ruling means that the former MFA Player of the Year can return to play for Hibernians when the Premier League resumes next week.

“I’m pleased that this ordeal is finally nearing its end,” Failla told The Times yesterday.

“The last three months have been very difficult for me. There have been a lot of allegations about my personal life but I preferred to remain silent until my appeal was heard by the commission.

“Now that my suspension has been reduced I am looking forward to resume my career with Hibernians.”

Failla is expected to make his first league appearance for the Paolites this season in the derby against Tarxien Rainbows which is scheduled for Sunday, October 21, at the National Stadium.

Failla’s return to action is a timely boost for the Paolites who saw their title hopes receive a double blow in recent weeks following back-to-back defeats to Valletta (1-0) and Sliema Wanderers (4-0) respectively.