Akins returns to Mansfield after release from jail

Striker Lucas Akins has returned to Mansfield Town following his release from prison, the League One club has confirmed.

The 36-year-old was jailed for 14 months in April after pleading guilty to causing the death of a cyclist by careless or inconsiderate driving.

Adrian Daniel, 33, died 10 days after he was struck by a Mercedes G350 being driven by Akins near Huddersfield in March 2022.

It is understood Akins has been released after serving half his original sentence with the remainder to be served on probation.

In a statement,, external the Stags said: "In line with principles of rehabilitation and reintegration, the club is of the view that Lucas, having served his sentence, should be afforded the opportunity to resume his professional career."

The club added they will "continue to offer appropriate support as he returns to the first-team environment".

Akins was a Mansfield player when the incident happened more than three years ago and continued to play for the Stags until he was jailed.

He pleaded guilty at Leeds Crown Court on 4 March but started a league match just hours later.

Following Akins' sentencing more than a month later, Stags boss Nigel Clough said the jail term came as an "unbelievable shock" to the club.

Akins' future with the club was kept open with the player not among those released by Mansfield in the summer, despite the forward's contract having expired.

The Stags offered "sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Daniel", adding "our thoughts remain with all those impacted by this tragic accident".