Bolton Wanderers striker Ivan Klasnic hopes for a preseason clear of drama.
The Croatian international faced a battle to prove his innocence after being falsely accused of rape in October.
Striker Klasnic was cleared of all wrong doing by the police - but the married father-of-one admitted the incident took its toll.
"I tried not to think too much about everything, but I was calm as I always knew that I was innocent," said the 31-year-old hot-shot to the Bolton News.
"But everything was just so sad, because there were a lot of rumours and talks.
"The hardest thing was that I had to say I'm sorry for everything but I wasn't even guilty. Luckily my family was by my side. They believed me, but I had to explain to them why me, why is this happening.
"It was hard time for me as everybody was asking me questions. But I showed once again how strong I am. Nothing can break me.
"I always loved football and that - with my family - helped me to stay on the surface."
Now German-born Klasnic is hoping to put his problems behind him and concentrate on his football.
He added: "I don't know what will happen in next season but because of everything that happened to me, so many bad things, I just want to enjoy it."
