Oxford United defender Chey Dunkley has been given a rap over the knuckles by the Football Association after he failed a dope test.

The centre back, 23, who joined the Sky Bet League Two club from Kidderminster Harriers in November last year, tested positive for salbutamol after using an inhaler prescribed for mild asthma.

The offence came to light during an anti-doping test after Oxford’s home game Cheltenham on January 3.

He admitted breaching FA anti-doping rules and requested a personal hearing.

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At the hearing on June 4, the FA accepted Dunkley’s explanation that there was no intention by him to enhance his sporting performance.

He was issued with a warning and reprimand and will now be subject to target testing for the next two years.

He was also ordered to pay £1,000 towards the costs.

Dunkley has a right of appeal against the decision.

A statement from Oxford United confirmed they had accepted the ruling, adding: “Chey suffers from asthma and was not aware of the restriction on salbutamol use.”