Controversial Sydney Roosters hooker Jake Friend has been charged with possessing a quantity of valium without a prescription.

The player was searched by police on patrol in Coogee, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, about 11.50pm (AEST) on Saturday.

A police spokesman said he was found to have a quantity of valium without a prescription.

He was arrested and charged with two counts of possessing a prescription drug without permission.

Fairfax Radio Network reported on Sunday that Friend was in a Coogee McDonald's restaurant when the arrest took place.

He was given bail and is due at Waverley Local Court on June 30.

The NRL club released a statement on Sunday confirming charges had been laid against Friend.

The Roosters said they had consulted with their own medical staff and were "of the firm belief that there is an innocent explanation."

"The club believes that as the charges are addressed and dealt with appropriately this will become clear to all parties," the statement went on to say.

Friend, 20, has had a troubled few years at the Roosters, his contract torn up in December after he was charged for refusing to pay a taxi fare.

After going through counselling and rehabilitation Friend was signed to a new contract with the Roosters last month.

Friend was also convicted of drink-driving and charged for an alleged nightclub assault earlier in 2009.

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