I’LL REPAY THE FAITH, VOWS COURTNEY

COURTNEY MEPPENWALTER says he is “embarrassed” by his drink-drive conviction and has vowed to repay Chorley after the National League North club pledged to stand by him.

The 24-year-old has been banned from driving for 22 months, must serve a 12month community order and complete 80 hours’ unpaid work after being caught more than twice the legal limit on December 10.

Chorley manager Jamie Vermiglio wants to support the defender with his rehabilitation and, while the club say the decision to retain him wasn’t taken lightly, they will work with Meppen-Walter through their community foundation.

The Magpies have fined the former Manchester City and Stockport County player and placed stipulations on his future conduct.

Meppen-Walter said: “I am very conscious of the fact that I have let down a lot of people by my actions, which I deeply regret. I’m embarrassed with what I’ve done.

“I have let down my family, my manager, the club and the supporters of Chorley FC, including all the people who have helped me get to this stage in my football career. I’m so sorry.

“Obviously, I must make up for a terrible error of judgement and I intend to do so, first by accepting the fine and punishment handed down by the court and subsequently by my future actions.”

Meppen-Walter was previously jailed for 16 months for careless driving after a brother and sister were killed when he crashed into their car in 2012.