English footballer back after prison stint

Sheffield Wednesday striker Gary Madine is set to resume his career in the English Championship following a four-month prison stint.

Sheffield Wednesday striker Gary Madine is to continue his career with the English Championship club following his release from prison last week.

The 23-year-old was found guilty of two separate assaults during a hearing at Leeds Crown Court in October and sentenced to 18 months.

However, he served only four and a half months in jail and Wednesday chairman Milan Mandaric said: "First and foremost, Gary is remorseful and has apologised to all those affected.

"He has made some serious errors of judgement and is the first to take ownership of that situation and the consequences that followed.

"We can only condemn his actions, as a community-focused football club, and make it abundantly clear that no further breach of club rules will be tolerated.

"However, we are of the belief that Gary will try his utmost to put this episode behind him, whilst never forgetting the impact of his actions.

"In addition, we firmly believe the club can play a key, hands-on role in facilitating Gary's rehabilitation back into the professional working environment."

Madine, who joined the Yorkshire club in 2011, added: "I would like to apologise unreservedly to everyone who has suffered through my actions.

I realise I let myself, my family and friends, and Sheffield Wednesday Football Club down.

"I now wish to look forward with all the focus on my football.

"I would also like to place on record my appreciation for everyone who has offered me help and support during this difficult period of my life."

He added: "I am grateful to Sheffield Wednesday for giving me this continued opportunity and I can only promise never to let the club or anyone else down in this manner again."

Wednesday take on Middlesbrough in the second-tier Championship on Saturday but it would be surprising if Madine, given his time away from football, were to play.


2 min read

Published

Source: AAP


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