Chicago Bears' Matt Forte defends himself amid criticism

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte has defended himself amid criticism from supporters on social media for missing the club's voluntary off-season workouts.

The Bears' off-season programme began last week with new head coach John Fox at the helm, but the 30-year-old opted to work out on his own in Florida with a private trainer.

Forte has just one year left on his contract with the Bears, but has insisted that he will return to the club's facility when training enters its critical stage.

Relax everybody... It's called voluntary W/O for a reason. I've always been there especially when it counts!

— Matt Forte (@MattForte22) April 14, 2015

Forte recorded 1,846 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns for the Bears in the 2014 season.