MASON Greenwood has today broken his silence as Man Utd revealed his career with Old Trafford was over.
The striker, 21, had been eyeing a comeback to the Premier League side after the attempted rape case against him was dropped earlier this year.
However, concluding its investigation, the club said that it had been “mutually agreed” that he would not make a return.
In a statement this afternoon, Greenwood said he “fully accepts” his mistakes and vowed to continue his career elsewhere.
Greenwood said: “I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst.
“I was brought up to know that violence or abuse…is wrong, I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.
READ MORE ON MASON GREENWOOD
“However, I fully accept I made mistakes…and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post.
He added: “I am learning to understand my responsibilities to set a good example as a professional footballer, and I’m focused on the big responsibility of being a father, as well as a good partner.
“Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me.
“The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club.
Most read in Football
“I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United. I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown.
“I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch.”
Greenwood has been suspended since January last year when he was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault.
Charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive and controlling behaviour were brought against him in October but were dropped in February this year.
The Crown Prosecution Service said that “key witnesses” had withdrawn from the investigation and “new information” had come to light.
However, he remained sidelined by United while an internal probe was carried out.
The Sun exclusively revealed last week that club bosses were set to bring Greenwood back into the fold.
The reports prompted a significant backlash from fans in the run-up to today’s decision.
Prominent fans including Countdown’s Rachel Riley urged the club not to allow Greenwood to return, with the TV star even saying she would pull her support if they did.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
