NFL BOSS APOLOGIZES FOR VIOLENCE SCANDALS

The National Football League boss has said he "got it wrong" in dealing with the violence scandals that have plagued the American football league.

In his first public statement in a week, Roger Goodell apologised for his mistakes and pledged to implement new personal conduct policies.

"We strongly condemn and will punish behaviour that is totally unacceptable," he said.

He has faced calls to resign after a series of assaults involving players.

But the commissioner said on Friday he had not considered stepping down and that he had the support of the team owners.

"We will get our house in order," he said at a press conference in New York.

Mr Goodell announced the NFL plans to set up a new personal conduct committee and draft new rules for the league's players and staff, which he hoped would be in place for the Super Bowl in early 2015.

The NFL, and Mr Goodell in particular, have been criticised over their handling of an abuse case involving running back Ray Rice from the Baltimore Ravens.