PADDY JACKSON: VERY FEW CAN UNDERSTAND WHAT I WENT THROUGH
FORMER Ulster and Ireland rugby player Paddy Jackson has said people might not understand what he has gone through unless they have experienced something similar — but he is determined to push on with his career in France.
Jackson and former Ulster team-mate Stuart Olding are now plying their trade in France after a high-profile rape trial earlier this year.
Both were acquitted in March of raping a woman in June 2016, but had their contracts revoked after a review by Irish rugby bosses.
Jackson subsequently secured a two-year contract with Perpignan and has already made an impressive debut for the club against Toulouse.
Watched by his father Peter, the 26-year-old showed few signs of rustiness, playing the first 40 minutes.
He landed all three kicks he took at the posts.
Jackson (26) said he is now determined to focus and rebuild his career.
“It’s been difficult, but it’s something that me and my family have just had to get used to,” he said.
“You only can really understand if you have been in my shoes or my family’s shoes.
“I have come out somewhere where people know about it, but they are all respectful and understanding about it.”
Jackson said he is aware of the comments of IRFU performance director David Nucifora, who suggested in June that the door might not be closed for re- turning to play in Ireland. “I saw the comments, but I just take everything as it comes now,” said Jackson.
“There is no point getting too worked up over anything.
“I am just loving being here and trying to just fit in as much as I can.
“I am just glad to be back playing.
“I have somewhere where I have friends and family coming over to visit.
“It’ s a lovely climate. Everything for me, it’s about enjoying where I am.
“It has just all been about rugby and really getting back enjoying life.
“That is all I have been thinking about, really.”