Sydney Roosters star Mitchell Pearce admits he has a lot of work to do to earn back the respect of rugby league fans and players.
The Roosters captain Mitchell Pearce playing for NSW State of Origin side. 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The 26-year-old was stood down from Roosters training after he was filmed simulating a lewd act involving a dog about a month ago.
After the video emerged, Pearce apologised and admitted he had a problem with alcohol.
Speaking at Sydney Airport this morning after returning to Australia following treatment in an overseas rehabilitation facility, Pearce said he would accept any punishment he got.
He knows he has a lot of work to do.
"I've got a lot of people to earn respect back off and I'm coming back here with a clear head and I've got a lot of people like I said to earn respect off so whatever my punishment is, I'll be copping that on the chin," he said.
Pearce said he was keen to get back to football.
"I love footy and it's something that I've missed a lot, being around my mates and being around footy. I deserve the punishment, I totally humiliated myself and a lot of other people."
The Roosters and the NRL are yet to decide on his punishment.