Eamon Dunphy doesn't believe sports people should be banned for taking cocaine.
Former Republic of Ireland striker Daryl Murphy revealed on Monday that he served a secret six-week ban for taking the drug last year.
In a statement to The Athletic, the Bolton Wanderers striker said: "Firstly, I would like to stress that the taking of recreational drugs is something that I don't condone whatsoever.
"I served a suspension at the beginning of last season for making a bad decision while on a night out.
"This was an isolated incident which happened out of competition when he had no game. I immediately regretted it.
"I am not proud of what I did but it's something I have put behind me as I want to concentrate on my football career."
TV pundit and former footballer Dunphy doesn't believe players should be banned for taking the drug as "it has nothing to do with sport".
He told The Irish Star: "It's a recreational drug. Obviously, it is illegal but in the context of a sportsman or sportswoman, it is not a performance enhancing drug, but most sports do take disciplinary action.
"There have been many sports people who have tested positive for it. I personally don't think they should be banned. It has nothing to do with sport."
He added: "The stuff is around everywhere. You could even take it unknowingly. I think if he has admitted it, that's good. If he's been punished and served his ban, then that is the end of it."
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