BAILEY LOOKS TO THE FUTURE
David Allen
Leeds Rhinos prop Ryan Bailey is looking to resurrect his career in Tetley's Rugby Super League following his release from a Young Offenders Institute on Tuesday.
The 19-year-old served two months in the Institute after being found guilty of violent disorder in July, with his Leeds team-mate Chev Walker and Rochdale's Paul Owen also being detained following their conviction.
Bailey - who played for Yorkshire this season and was named in the initial Great Britain Ashes squad - is the first to be released, and he returned to the Rhinos on Tuesday.
The highly promising England Academy player could even play a part in Leeds' challenge to reach the Grand Final, with Wigan Warriors visiting Headingley for Friday's Final Eliminator.
In a statement issued through the club, Bailey said that he is now looking to put the incident behind him and concentrate on regaining his place in the Leeds team.
"I would like to apologise for any embarrassment I have caused the Leeds Rhinos club, it's players and supporters," he said.
"I have paid a heavy price for an act of stupidity and realise that my actions put the good name of both Leeds and the game of Rugby League in jeopardy.
"I deeply regret and apologise for my actions and hopefully if any good can come from this situation it will be that people will think twice before becoming involved in such situations in the future.
"I am looking forward to spending time with my son and family and getting my career back on track.
"I am still only 19 and hopefully I will be able to get back to my best as soon as possible and repay the faith that everyone has shown in me.
"I would like to thank the club, players and fans for their support over the past couple of months which have obviously been an extremely difficult time for me and my family.
"I would also like to say that my thoughts are with Chev and his family and whilst I know it will be tough for him, Im sure he will come through this experience a stronger person."
)
