Banned Adelaide star Izak Rankine has fought back tears while issuing a public apology for directing a homophobic slur at a Collingwood player last month.

Rankine arrived in Adelaide on Tuesday night after being sent to Italy at the behest of his club to avoid the spotlight in the aftermath of his four-game suspension.

The midfielder, reading from a prepared statement at Adelaide Airport, said he was sorry for the hurt caused by his homophobic remark and that he was “in no way a victim”.

“I want to start by saying how deeply sorry I am for what I said. There was no excuse, it was wrong and I take full responsibility,” Rankine told reporters.

“I’m disappointed in myself and I know I have let a lot of people down.

“I want to apologise to anyone who I have hurt and offended. I understand

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