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Star striker Didier Drogba returns to Impact after being AWOL from TFC game

Montreal Impact's Didier Drogba celebrates after scoring against the Philadelphia Union during first half MLS soccer action in Montreal on July 23, 2016.
Montreal Impact's Didier Drogba celebrates after scoring against the Philadelphia Union during first half MLS soccer action in Montreal on July 23, 2016. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

Didier Drogba has returned to the Montreal Impact after leaving for one game and will remain for the rest of the season, team president Joey Saputo said Tuesday.

The star striker will receive an undisclosed fine under the MLS collective bargaining agreement for missing a game without permission.

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Drogba asked to be taken out of the lineup when he was told by coach Mauro Biello that he would not be in the starting 11 for a 2-2 draw Sunday with Toronto FC.

The former Chelsea star did not turn up at the stadium, although he sent his teammates a good luck message.

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Saputo said he met with Drogba, and the 38-year-old agreed to return and to accept whatever decisions Biello makes on his lineup.

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The coach has preferred to use Drogba off the bench in recent matches.

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