McLaren gave a positive drugs test in 2000 during his time at Reading and was immediately banned from football. After receiving treatment for drug addiction and alcoholism, McLaren returned to football with Kilmarnock, continuing to receive treatment upon returning to first club Dundee United in 2004.
McLaren's positive drug test in 2000 led to a ban from football, but after seeking treatment for his addiction and alcoholism, he was able to return to the sport with Kilmarnock and continued receiving treatment upon rejoining Dundee United in 2004.