Gary Croft has released a statement on his release from prison. The defender said: "Firstly I would like to say how delighted I am to be back amongst my colleagues at Ipswich Town Football Club, a Club whose support for me during these turbulent times has been boundless. I am greatly indebted by their compassion and extremely grateful at the opportunity given to restart my career and re-establish my own personal image. This statement also gives me the opportunity to publicly say thank you for the support of my family, friends and supporters of Ipswich Town. I have received hundreds of encouraging letters and cards, re-iterating to me how badly I have erred but also assuring me that there is a road to recovery. These letters have helped me through and without them my time would surely have been harder.

But now is the time to focus on my future and foremost my profession. It is a profession that has brought me a very good life and one I now guard and cherish with utmost protection, never again shall I put it at risk. There is now simply nothing more important to me than playing football again. Fortunately for me, I feel it's with the best footballing side of the first division and one with great pride and tradition. I hope one day to add to this pride myself.

I now re-iterate how sorry I am to all affected by my irresponsible actions especially Ipswich Town Football Club. I have now repaid my debt in the form of a custodial sentence and wish now to be allowed to put my career back on track. I would appreciate it if the press could take this statement as a once and for all comment on the matter."

The club added that no further interviews will be given on the matter, although there will probably be comments from George Burley on his return from Tenerife.

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