Neil Warnock has called for his former goalkeeper Paddy Kenny to be treated leniently following the Republic of Ireland international's positive drugs test.

Kenny has been suspended by Sheffield United after testing positive for the stimulant ephedrine in a urine sample given after the Blades' play-off semi-final against Preston in May.

Warnock, who managed Kenny during his spell in charge at Bramall Lane, told BBC Radio Sheffield: "Anybody who knows Paddy will tell you he wouldn't have done this deliberately.

"He's a smashing lad but can be a bit daft and because of that he can get himself into situations, and unfortunately this could be the biggest of the lot.

"There does seem to be a feeling that the FA will be looking to make an example of somebody but I hope it's looked upon as a genuine mistake and he only receives a minimum ban. He is definitely not a cheat."

Kenny, 31, will now be subject to a disciplinary inquiry by the Football Association and will face an independent regulatory commission. It is understood that he will insist the ephedrine entered his system through some cough mixture he took before the match - the stimulant is contained in some cold cures.