MLS: Buddle needs note from his doctor to play

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Crew forward Edson Buddle, who pleaded guilty to drunken driving this week, is being held out of games by Major League Soccer because he violated its substance abuse and behavioral health policy.

MLS spokesman Simon Borg said Buddle has not been suspended and declined to say what he did to violate the policy. Buddle will not be allowed to play until he is cleared by doctors, the league said in a release Friday.

Buddle, 24, pleaded guilty Friday in Franklin County Municipal Court to a charge of drunken driving. Four other charges were dismissed. He was fined $599 and his license was suspended.

Columbus police pulled Buddle over on July 31 and he refused to take a Breathalyzer test.

"Our first priority and primary concern is Edson's health and well-being," Crew general manager Mark McCullers said in a release Friday. "We look forward to him returning to the team as soon as possible."

Buddle leads the Crew with five goals.