Steffon Armitage cleared of doping charges

Toulon flanker Steffon Armitage has been cleared of doping charges by the French Rugby Federation, his representatives have confirmed.

The England international was banned after he tested positive for morphine following his side's defeat to Toulouse at the end of last season.

The 27-year-old and his club both denied the charge, insisting that the positive result was due to painkillers that the player was taking for a back problem.

The FFR's disciplinary panel contacted Armitage's lawyers on Thursday to confirm that he will not be suspended.