From his forthcoming book, which is being serialised in the Supersoaraway Sun:
Talking about his drug test.
"I was a fool, I made a mistake. I tried to rectify it and rang the FA but I couldn't get through to anyone. I took a test two days later and was clear. I didn't cry, I still thought I could play football. I don't want sympathy, I just want people to understand the truth of what happened.
"There was drug dealing on the estate where I grew up. I was offered drugs then and I get offered them today.
"It's people taking the p*** or seeing what you're going to say. Of course I've heard the rumours about me taking drugs. But I was taught as a kid to say no to stuff like that and that has carried on throughout my life. If anyone had any proof about me taking drugs they would have sold the story then. It would have been front page news."
About betting - Fergie gave him some advice:
"One day the gaffer pulled me aside and asked if I was involved in any of the betting stuff being reported in the papers. I told him the truth, that it was a few thousand here and there, and the gaffer said, ‘My advice to you is to quit while you're ahead.'
"I'm not addicted to gambling. It's something I don't do now. It was a phase I went through but it's a stupid game. I would say if someone bets within their means every now and again and it isn't going to affect their family, then it's OK. As something to be doing as a regular habit then I would say no."
Drinking and women:
"I liked Jack Daniel's as a kid — I'd drink a good amount. As a young guy I enjoyed the company of the opposite sex. That's growing up, you need to do that as a kid to find the one you love.
"Rebecca is the only girlfriend I've ever really had and she has been a great support to me in good and bad times. We couldn't be happier.
"Some women just can't wait to get hold of a footballer then shout from the rooftops that they are spending their husband's money. I don't think that's the right way to look at life — but everyone's got their own ideas.
"I wouldn't want to be in a relationship where we were both constantly on the front of gossip mags and what we were wearing was news."