Collingwood AFL star Jordan De Goey has released a statement declaring his intention to defend himself against an assault charge in New York.
The 25-year-old's career hangs in the balance after he was stood down by the Magpies from all duties ahead of his next court date in the United States on December 8.
De Goey is charged with punching and kicking a 37-year-old man at a Halloween-themed party at PHD Rooftop Lounge on October 30.
New York police also accused De Goey of forcible touching of a 35-year-old female's private areas outside the clothing without permission, but that charge was dropped by prosecutors.
On Friday, De Goey publicly addressed the situation for the first time since he was arrested.
"On the advice of my counsel, I cannot speak about the incident itself or make comment on the current legal matters that are still ongoing," he wrote in an Instagram post.
"At this stage I will not be making further public comment on this matter."
De Goey released a statement from attorney Jacob Kaplan, which was also distributed by the AFL Players' Association.
"Mr De Goey intends to vigorously defend himself against these unwarranted charges," the statement said.
"Despite the original media reports otherwise, Mr De Goey has not been charged with forcible touching or any other sexual assault crimes against a woman.
"There are no current restrictions on his travel, and he plans on using the next few months to continue preparing for the upcoming AFL season."
De Goey was granted bail in New York and returned to California, where he has been based during the off-season to undertake an intensive training program ahead of the 2022 campaign.
He left Australia under a permit due to his sponsorship and work arrangements with Monster Energy and it is unclear if De Goey will return home before his next court date.
De Goey has one year left to run on his Collingwood contract but his playing future is uncertain as the club awaits the outcome of the player's next court appearance.
Australian Associated Press
