Pardew won't abandon Newton

Shaun Newton has apologised for failing a drugs test while Alan Pardew will help him.

Shaun Newton has apologised for failing a drugs test while West Ham United manager Alan Pardew has vowed to help the winger.

The 30-year-old has picked up a seven-month suspension, back-dated to May, after testing positive for cocaine after the club's FA Cup semi-final against Middlesbrough in April.

Newton has admitted his mistake and is hoping others will learn from his predicament in the future.

"I have let down my family, my friends, the club and its supporters, and for that I am truly sorry," Newton told the club's official website.

"It was an isolated incident, but I must face up to my responsibilities.

"I in no way condone the taking of drugs and hope that my experience will act as a deterrent to others."

Pardew acknowledged his hurt that Newton had failed the test, but insists he will not abandon the former Wolves attacker.

"First of all, I would like to express my disappointment and sadness at the situation Shaun Newton finds himself in," said Pardew.

"He knows that he has let down his family, the club and, of course, himself.

"However, I can say now that, as a football club, we will stand by Shaun throughout this difficult time. West Ham United has always had a reputation as a family club and our belief here is that, when a member of your family is in trouble, you look after them.

"Our instinct is to support Shaun and his young family and give them all the help and encouragement we can. We will work with him to help him get through this period and ensure that he comes through the other side.

"It infuriates me to hear of drug use in any sport, there is absolutely no place for it. It is a belief I have always held, so for it to occur at West Ham United is something that hurts and saddens me.

"Although we will continue to help and support Shaun through this difficult time, we are also acutely aware of our responsibilities as a club and he will face internal disciplinary action when all of the information surrounding his situation is clarified.

"However, I have seen at first hand the emotional and personal hell that Shaun Newton has been through in recent weeks and our priority must be to help him, not abandon him.

"I hope his experience serves as a lesson to any sportsperson."