Drogheda United Player Issues Apology Following Tweet About Belfast Trial

Darragh Berry

After the verdict in the Belfast Trial had been given last week, several people took to Social Media, including two Ireland sport stars, to express their personal feelings about the trial.

One of those sport stars has issued an apology on Easter Monday following his comments about the verdict.

A tweet sent by Drogheda United’s Luke Rossiter was aimed at the complainant after the verdict had been given.

The club disassociated themselves from the tweet immediately saying that they found it “disgusting” and that an investigation would take place regarding the matter.

In a statement released on the club’s website, Rossiter said sending the tweet was “stupid and immature”.

“May I start by saying how deeply sorry I am for the comment I made on social media. The truth is I don’t really know why I did it as I have no reasoning behind it.

It was a stupid and immature thing to do.

And in doing so, I have hurt and let my family, club, manager, team-mates and the Drogheda fans down and I’m sure many more.

I have only been at Drogheda United a short time and for them and Tim Clancy to take a chance on me I can only say I am truly sorry.

It is clear I still have some growing up to do in relation to how I conduct myself off the pitch as well as on it.

If the club and fans can forgive me I would like to start that growing by donating any money that I receive from Drogheda United for the remainder of the season to the Rape Crisis North East based in Dundalk which has an outreach programme in Drogheda.

I would also like to offer my time to promote awareness of such sensitive issues and I am also keen to learn how such issues can impact and affect people’s lives.

Once again I’m sorry for any hurt I have caused.”

As well as this, the club also released a statement underneath Rossiter’s which says:

“While the club acknowledges Luke’s whole-hearted apology, an internal investigation is still ongoing.

“Drogheda United are also carrying out a review of club policy and plan to educate all players and staff in relation to the impact their opinions and actions can have on others.

“Luke Rossiter has been informed that he will not be considered for selection until such time that the investigation is completed and reviewed.”