Nile Ranger says he is desperate to return to playing football

Nile Ranger has publicly apologised to current side Blackpool as well as his previous clubs for "taking things for granted", adding he is desperate to return to playing football.

Blackpool released 17 players at the end of last season but surprised many by taking up an option to extend Ranger's contract by a further year.

That came after Ranger, who has been plagued by off-field issues throughout his career, went AWOL from the club last November. He has not featured for Blackpool since.

"I just want to take the time out to write this post as I feel like I need to get this of (sic) my chest," Ranger wrote on Twitter on Monday night.

"I have seen 2 of my good friends pass away in a short space of time... Whilst overcoming this it has made me realise life really is to (sic) short and have really been taking things for granted.

"I would like to use this opportunity to thank, Southampton, Newcastle, Swindon and Blackpool for giving me the chance to experience the dream of being a professional footballer.

"To add to this I would like to apologise to every one (sic) at these clubs, including management, players, staff and fans. I should have given more and been a better role model.

"I would also like to add I am sorry to my current team mates at Blackpool, for being missing for a long period of time and not attending preseason and putting in the hard work during this time. I have been wishing the best for you all.

"I'm not using the death of my two friends as an excuse, as I know I should be doing better regardless. Truth be told I am just a young boy who has been living the dream playing a game which I do love and miss deeply and hope that one day I will be able to get back on a pitch and play because life is really is to (sic) short."

Despite posting a number of videos on social media showing him training hard, Blackpool boss Neil McDonald has questioned the 24-year-old's professionalism, insisting he will not play for the club again.

"Nobody needs this, me or the lad," McDonald told the Blackpool Gazette. "He can come back and put things on social media showing him training and grafting, but he's not really.

"He's come back to cause a bit of havoc and some headlines. He didn't even turn up on Friday, so that's what we are having to deal with.

"The player has no future at this club," McDonald added. "You'll have to ask the hierarchy why he is still here."