The president of Fenerbahce, Sadettin Saran, has released a statement after the bombshell news of his arrest shook the Turkish Super Lig on Christmas day.

According to state television TRT, Saran was arrested in Istanbul as part of a drug investigation involving celebrities from the entertainment and media worlds, the club deny an arrest.

In a statement, the newly-elected Turkish-American said: “Never in my life have I consumed this substance which, according to them, was detected by the forensic laboratory.

“Not only have I never taken it but I have never even seen it up close.

“These allegations constitute a smear campaign against me, which also aims to destroy the institutions I represent.”

Fenerbahce themselves also released a statement which said: “In order to address some misunderstandings that have arisen in the public regarding the ongoing process, there has been a need to provide information.

“Our President, Mr. Sadettin Saran, has gone to the Maslak Provincial Gendarmerie Command using his own vehicle from our club, under the guidance and supervision of the relevant authorities within the scope of the ongoing judicial process.

“The process has been conducted in a highly calm and civilised manner from the very beginning.

“All necessary facilities have been provided to our President by the relevant units; and Mr. President has accompanied the process at every stage with a constructive and responsible attitude.

“At this stage of the process, our most important request from every Fenerbahçe supporter is to trust the esteemed Turkish judiciary and to exhibit a measured stance.

“We respectfully submit this to the information of the public.”