Former Blue Jason Dozzell has expressed his gratitude to Town and his former team-mate Simon Milton following this morning’s court hearing, while the club have also issued a statement.
The 51-year-old was banned for 14 months from driving and fined £440, plus £105 prosecution costs and a £32 victim surcharge, at Ipswich Magistrate’s Court earlier today having pleaded guilty to drug driving.
He also admitted driving not in accordance with his licence, which required that he must drive wearing glasses or contact lenses, and was fined a further £146. When stopped he told officers he was wearing only one lens.
A statement on Dozzell’s behalf from Horry Money of McQueens Solicitors reads: "Jason would like to take this opportunity of thanking everyone who has supported him in this extremely difficult time.
"He fully accepts the findings of the Court and is determined to overcome the difficult challenges that lie ahead.
"He is extremely grateful to the support that he has received from Ipswich Town Football Club and in particular to his former team mate and friend Simon Milton.
"He would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Wyeth QC for his legal representation today.”
Blues general manager of football operations Lee O’Neill was a character witness at this morning’s hearing, along with Milton.
A Town spokesperson said: "We obviously don’t condone the actions that have resulted in Jason’s appearance in court.
"He has acknowledged that he is going through a difficult stage in his life and where possible we will assist him through the challenges he faces.”
""Town paid Dozzell's barrister's fees but we understand he will be paying back any costs incurred by the club.