TWO Oxford City players who were suspended for breaking Covid rules have apologised for their actions.

Nana Owusu and Jacob Bancroft were disciplined for not wearing masks at a service station on the way to last Wednesday's game at Billericay Town.

The pair were omitted from City's Vanarama National League South stalemate against Welling United on Saturday.

City are investigating the breach, but the players came forward independently to express regret for the incident.

David Oldfield: Covid saga did not distract Oxford City against Welling United

Striker Owusu said: "I’m deeply sorry myself and another player were not wearing a mask whilst at a service station.

"I recognise that I broke Covid protocols and never had the intention to harm anyone through this mistake.

"I don’t take this matter lightly and realise how serious this virus is and how many lives it has affected.

"I will ensure I make a much better effort going forward to follow the guidelines set out for us by the government and the football club that I represent."

Bancroft, also a forward, added: "I’m deeply sorry for the honest mistake I made on Wednesday and I fully understand how serious this pandemic is and how many families it has affected.

"I know that I have a responsibility to represent this football club in the right manner and I will make sure this does not happen again.

"Once again I want to take full responsibility for my actions and I am truly sorry."

City visit Braintree Town in the league tomorrow night.