John Hardie faces three month suspension from Edinburgh

Edinburgh have confirmed a three-month ban for Scotland international John Hardie following an internal investigation.

The 29-year-old was initially suspended by both club and country in October after reports of alleged cocaine use and was left out of Scotland's autumn international squad.

With the ban backdated to his initial suspension, Hardie will be able to return to the Myerside outfit in the mid of January next year.

An Edinburgh spokesperson said: "John has cooperated with the disciplinary process throughout.

"He has acknowledged the serious mistake he has made as a professional athlete and has accepted full responsibility for his conduct.

"It has been made clear that we are not prepared to tolerate the behaviour which caused this situation.

"Support will be provided to the player by Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Rugby on a personal and professional level throughout the period of his suspension and going forward."

Meanwhile, Hardie apologised for his actions and is hopeful of reclaiming his place when his ban comes to an end.

"I would like to apologise to everyone for putting myself in this situation.

"Through my actions I feel I have let my club, my team-mates and the fans down.

"I am now focused on putting myself in the best possible position to be considered for selection again."