Hearts professional footballer Craig Thomson has requested that the club issues a statement on his behalf in order to address the supporters directly. The club has agreed to this and the player's statement is as follows.

"Firstly, I would like to apologise to all those involved in this unfortunate affair. I also want to apologise to my family, friends and the staff, players and supporters of Heart of Midlothian Football Club.

"I was wrong for what I did and will, rightfully, accept my punishment for my errant conduct. I am fully aware that I have let everyone down and I am truly sorry for that.

"As I said previously, football is my life and I will focus on that. This has been a learning curve for me. I personally make no excuses for what I did but I would like to thank the club for studying the entire circumstances around the matter.

"The club's investigation and full understanding into every aspect of my situation is something I am very grateful for. I am fully aware of the extreme pressure the club faced from individuals and organisations that were not in full possession of the facts surrounding my situation. I thank them for this understanding.

"My aim now is to move on and develop my career and I know that this will only happen with the support of my family, friends and the club. I also know how hard I will have to work to restore your faith in me as an individual and a footballer. I can assure you that I have no intention of letting you down again."

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