Ashamed.

Ulster and Ireland playmaker has issued a fresh statement via the Press Association, apologising unreservedly for everything that has happened in relation to his rape trial.

Jackson says he is “ashamed” the young woman in question left his house in such a distressed state, and says he will “always regret” what happened that night.

He has also accepted all the criticism of his behaviour, stating it is “fully justified” and that he has “betrayed” his family values. Jackson has also apologised for the “degrading” messages that were sent in the group WhatsApp.

“I am ashamed that a young woman who was a visitor to my home left in a distressed state. This was never my intention and I will always regret the events of that evening.”

I am also truly sorry for engaging in a WhatsApp group chat which was degrading and offensive and I apologise unreservedly for this.

“The criticism of my behaviour is fully justified and I know I have betrayed the values of my family and those of the wider public.

“Following the trial I have taken time to reflect with my family on the values that were such an integral part of my upbringing, the most important of which is respect. My departure from these values has caused understandable public anger and I am resolutely committed to returning to those principles.”

Following the case the IRFU and Ulster Rugby announced that they will carry out a joint internal review which is still ongoing.