Slipknot¡¯s hardcore drummer, Joey Jordision has reassured fans that he has not quit the heavy metal band, but was ¡°blindsided by the departure¡±.

Last month, news had filtered through that the drummer had left the group citing ¡°personal reasons¡± as the reason for his departure.

However, Jordision released a statement through Metal Hammer that reassures fans that he has not ¡°abandon the group¡±.

The statement read: ¡°To my fans, friends, and associates¡­ I would like to start the New Year by addressing the recent rumours and speculations regarding my departure from Slipknot. I want to make it very clear that I DID NOT QUIT SLIPKNOT. This band has been my life for the last 18 years, and I would never abandon it, or my fans.¡±

Jordision went on to say that he was ¡°blindsided¡± by his exit from the group, but did not give away any more reasons for ¡°why¡± he left.

¡°This news has shocked and blindsided me as much as it has all of you,¡± he continued.

¡°While there is much I would like to say, I must remain silent to further details at this time. I would like to thank you all for your unwavering love and support, and wish everyone a very happy and healthy new year.¡±

The news of his departure started late last year when Corey Taylor told Minneapolis radio station 93x why Jordision left the group.

¡°I can confirm that we have parted ways with Joey and as soon as we can say something, we will, but we¡¯re trying to protect him, trying to protect us, just making sure that we do everything right because that¡¯s what we would expect from ourselves and what we would expect from the fans,¡± said Taylor.

¡°I know the fans are chomping at the bit, it¡¯s just we can¡¯t really say anything right now. It sucks for them and it sucks for us because we have always really prided ourselves in being able to come out and honest with everybody, but there¡¯s really nothing we can say right now.¡±

News of a new member set to replace Jordision has not materialise, but expect some news to develop soon.