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AAP
AAP
Sport
Roger Vaughan

Kangaroos clear Tarryn Thomas for return to training

North Melbourne have cleared Tarryn Thomas for a return to AFL training. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

North Melbourne utility Tarryn Thomas will return to training, with the Kangaroos satisfied he is showing remorse for his off-field behaviour.

Thomas has been away from Arden St since February 1 because of allegations about "serious and confronting" threats of violence against women.

On Thursday he asked police to drop criminal charges against him, as he faced court over allegations he violated a court order.

In a statement on Saturday afternoon, the club said Thomas will train on Monday but remain unavailable for selection until he finishes a respectful behaviour program to their satisfaction.

Thomas also said in the statement that he had learned a lot about himself in the past few weeks.

"I'm working hard to improve my behaviour and language towards women and the programs I'm completing have really helped me," he said.

"The club and my teammates have continued to support me and I hope to repay them, the club and our fans on my return.

"I'm still working through some legal issues and I'll have more to say once they are behind me."

Thomas met with club leaders this week and chief executive Jennifer Watt said they felt he should be back at Arden St.

"The club's strong position with Tarryn has been for him to focus on the program that supports behaviour change along with ensuring accountability and for Tarryn to take responsibility for his actions," Watt said.

"Disrespect towards women is completely unacceptable and its impacts can be far-reaching.

"We wanted to see a genuine commitment from Tarryn to address the behaviours that have led to the serious allegations made against him in recent months and we've seen that.

"Given his commitment to the program, and the remorse we've seen from him, we think it's time to bring Tarryn back to the structure of the club environment."

The Kangaroos said the club's actions with Thomas were to do with behavioural issues last year.

"North Melbourne and Thomas will continue to co-operate fully with the AFL and Victoria Police in relation to any allegations or investigations," the Kangaroos said.

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