Rob Gronkowski has confirmed that the cast has been removed from his fractured forearm, and that he is ready to resume training.

The New England Patriots tight end injured his arm for the second time during the playoffs, needing surgery to repair the bone.

The 23-year-old told the Patriots website: "I appreciate everyone's support of me. Just worrying about my arm, just making sure I'm 100% healthy, which I totally agree because I definitely want to be 100% healthy.

"I love playing the game of football. I love the game of football. To this day, I always wonder, without sports where would I be? I just have to appreciate that and just watch out, totally be careful out there, and get my forearm 100% and get my body healthy so when next season rolls around, I'm ready to go."

Gronkowski scored 11 touchdowns during the regular season for the Patriots in 2012.