Bristol City defender Luke Ayling has issued an apology for his involvement in the scenes at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday that have received a host of negative headlines.

MK Dons midfielder Samir Carruthers and Northampton Town striker James Collins were both pictured urinating into glasses in a private box at the famous race meeting, the latter of whom then tipped the contents over the side of a balcony.

Although there is no suggestion that Ayling committed a similar act, images appear to show him encouraging the duo and joking with them afterwards.

The 24-year-old has now released the following statement on City's official website: "I would like to apologise for any embarrassment I have caused my club.

"Looking at the pictures in the cold light of day I regret, firstly, that I put myself in that situation and secondly that I didn't remove myself from it earlier.

"We were on a sanctioned team day out and I'm devastated it ended up in the national media and causing offence.

"I'm grateful for the thorough investigation into this matter made by the club, which has cleared my name of any indecent behaviour.

"I'm looking forward to getting back to the important business on Saturday against Bolton Wanderers at Ashton Gate and making City fans proud."

Both Carruthers and Collins have been financially punished by their respective clubs.