Norwich forward Lewis Grabban apologises for missing League Cup match

London: Norwich City forward Lewis Grabban has issued an apology after failing to show up for the club`s League Cup victory at Rotherham United last month while trying to force a move to Bournemouth during the transfer window.

Grabban was not at the New York Stadium for the 2-1 second-round win and although manager Alex Neil refused to say if the player had been given permission to skip the game, he confirmed that Norwich had turned down a third bid for Grabban.

"I`ve apologised to the manager, the staff and my fellow professionals for the situation that arose two weeks ago and for not being available for the game at Rotherham," the 27-year-old Englishman told the club website (www.canaries.co.uk).

"I`d like to apologise to the club and most importantly the Norwich fans for my actions. The fans who travelled to Rotherham I especially apologise to.

"I`ve served a suspension and been fined, which I fully accept. Now I`m just determined to train hard and to let my football do the talking -- and to do everything I can to help Norwich City do well."

Grabban scored 12 goals in 36 appearances for the club last season and played a pivotal role as the Canaries were promoted to the Premier League.

Norwich, who are currently 14th in the league table, host Bournemouth on Saturday, in what could be a feisty affair between the two promoted clubs.