England rugby player Marland Yarde has revealed he was arrested for a “very serious offence” earlier this year.
The Sale Sharks winger, 30, who has 13 international caps, was released by the club after his arrest in January and disappeared from the game. He says he now wants to make a return to the sport.
Yarde said in a statement on his social media accounts: “In January, as I think is known by some of the rugby community, I was arrested on suspicion of having committed a very serious offence,” he said. “A necessarily lengthy police investigation followed but I can now confirm that no further action is to be taken against me. I have not been charged with any offence.
“Whilst I never doubted my innocence, I understand that the investigation had to be handled with care and sensitivity for the protection of all involved.
“Although innocent of the crime alleged against me, I take full responsibility for having put myself in a situation where an allegation could be made against me. I am working hard to improve myself as a person using what the incident has taught and shown me.
“I want to apologise to all my family and friends for the hurt and distress I have caused them. Their love and support gave me the strength to see a positive future and I look forward to resuming my career doing what I love, which is playing rugby.”
A Greater Manchester Police spokesman confirmed no further action is being taken.
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