Liverpool centre-back Kolo Toure has warned his teammate Mamadou Sakho of the difficulties he may face if found guilty of prohibited drug use.

Sakho was dropped from Liverpool's squad for Saturday's clash with Newcastle United after he tested positive for a banned substance after a UEFA drug test taken following the club's Europa League tie with Manchester United on March 17.

It is claimed that a fat burning supplement was responsible for the traces of the substance in Sakho's blood and now the French defender faces a prospect of a lengthy ban.

Toure, who was banned for six months for almost similar reason in 2011, said that it can prove to be a very difficult experience.

"Right now I haven't spoken with Mama to be honest," said Toure.

"This is private. He knows what I think about him. I've been there and it has been really difficult, definitely.

"I don't want to remember that because it has been tough for me. I don't even want to talk about that because it is very hard."