LONDON (AFP) - Adrian Mutu issued an apology to fans at his former club Chelsea for testing positive for cocaine last month.
The Romania striker, sacked by Chelsea and handed a seven month ban by the English Football Association for failing the drug test, said: "I'm very sorry for what I have done.
"I know I have disappointed them (the fans). I wish them all the best, and I wish to see Chelsea at a good level."
Mutu, speaking on BBC television, added: "I've made a mistake and I am sorry. Who doesn't make mistakes in this life? I'm really sorry."
Chelsea terminated Mutu's contract on the grounds of "gross misconduct," as part of their "zero-tolerance" drugs policy.
The player was also fined 20,000 pounds by the FA's disciplinary committee who said his suspension would be subject to him completing a "programme of education and rehabilitation".
11/06/2004 - 13:09 GMT - AFP