Corey Perry apologizes, says he's seeking help for 'struggles with alcohol'

Corey Perry said Thursday he has begun working with mental health and substance abuse experts to discuss his struggles with alcohol after Chicago terminated his contract for engaging in "conduct that is unacceptable" and against team policies.

Perry emailed a statement to The Associated Press and other outlets apologizing for behaviour he called "inappropriate and wrong." Perry's longtime agent, Pat Morris, confirmed by text message that his client sent the statement.

The 38-year-old NHL veteran said he hopes to regain the trust of those who believed in him throughout his career.

"I would like to sincerely apologize to the entire Chicago organization, including ownership, management, coaches, trainers, employees and my teammates," Perry said. "I would also like to apologize to my fans and my family. I am embarrassed, and I have let you all down."

Corey Perry releases a statement: <a href="https://t.co/UnXbuk1tlS">pic.twitter.com/UnXbuk1tlS</a>

Echoing what general manager Kyle Davidson made abundantly clear at his news conference Tuesday, Perry said the situation had nothing to do with teammates or their families.

"I am sickened by the impact this has had on others," Perry said. "Most importantly, I want to directly apologize to those who have been negatively affected, and I am sorry for the additional impact to others it has created."

Perry ended the statement, "Once again, I am deeply sorry."

Neither Perry nor the team would say exactly what occurred, other than Davidson calling it a workplace matter that did not involve law enforcement. He was suspiciously scratched from a game at Columbus on Nov. 22, before Davidson said Perry would be away from the team for the foreseeable future.

After an internal investigation,