Thursday 5 June 2014 16:24, UK
Leeds full-back Zak Hardaker has apologised for using an "offensive term" during his side's 24-6 defeat away to Warrington last Friday.
The Rugby Football League compliance department is undertaking a formal investigation after the Rhinos player was alleged to have made homophobic comments in the televised match at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
Hardaker - who on Tuesday was named in England's 34-man training squad for a camp at Loughborough University between June 15-17 - has now issued a statement on the matter.
In the heat of the game, I have used an offensive term and I can honestly say I was deeply saddened when I found out after the game how my comment had been perceived.
"Because of the RFL's investigation, this is the first opportunity I have had to speak about the incident in last week's game at Warrington," Hardaker said.
"First and foremost I would like to apologise for any offence my comments during that game have caused. In the heat of the game, I have used an offensive term and I can honestly say I was deeply saddened when I found out after the game how my comment had been perceived.
"As professional players we know that we have an obligation to conduct ourselves in the right manner for the good of the game at all times, that includes with our team mates, opponents, officials and of course supporters at the ground and those watching at home on television, and my comments fell below those standards.
"I would especially like to apologise to Michael Monaghan, who my comments were aimed at. During the investigation, I was made aware that the referee on the night, James Child, also heard my comment and was offended by it. I would like to unreservedly apologise to him for that and I can assure him that no offence was intended toward him."
Hardaker also confirmed in the statement, released via Leeds' official website, that he had admitted his mistake to the RFL and was ready to face the music.
"I have complied fully with the RFL's investigation, never looked to deny what I said and will accept their judgement," the 22-year-old continued.
"I made a mistake and hopefully, if any good can come from this situation, it is that everyone thinks about the words they say and how they can cause unintended offence to those around us. Clearly certain words have powerful meanings other than that intended at the time."
Leeds head coach Brian McDermott hopes that the situation with Hardaker will remind players of the standards required on the field, particularly with the level of coverage the sport attracts these days.
"This is a disappointing incident on all fronts," the Rhinos boss said.
"As a club we pride ourselves on representing our game in the best possible light. Zak has made a mistake. I am confident this was a genuine error of judgement and that he understands the offence his comment has caused.
"The standards set for the modern players are higher than any previous generation with the amount of coverage our game receives on television and online. As a club we must help our players to understand the level of scrutiny required to make sure an incident like this does not happen again."
