Chesterfield defender Anthony Gerrard apologises over messages posted on Twitter

Gerrard, 33, did not play in Town's first win of the season against Torquay United at the Proact on Saturday due to a hamstring injury.

Later that evening, he put out a number of unprintable tweets on the social media site in response to some online criticism.

Gerrard: “I accept that I was wrong to respond to messages sent to me via social media. It was not my intention to bring the club into disrepute and I would like to apologise to anyone who was offended by my comments.

“I have the utmost respect for this club and the people associated with it and will do everything I can to help improve the club’s standing, both on the pitch and by representing Chesterfield FC in the community.”

While club chief executive Graham Bean said: “When used properly, social media is a highly-effective communication tool. As a club, we condemn the posting of inappropriate content on social media and would urge people to respect others when using this medium.”

Liam Norcliffe's Chesterfield column: Heart and desire got Chesterfield their first win of the seasonGerrard joined Chesterfield in the summer after being released by Carlisle United.

Before leaving Carlisle United Gerrard had been at Oldham Athletic where had his contract terminated by the Latics for 'gross misconduct arising from certain social media posts which brought the club into disrepute.