UPDATE
The Bombers have confirmed the news in a statement.
Essendon footy boss Dan Richardson thanked Neeld for his commitment to the club.
“Mark has been an extremely professional and hardworking member of the club’s coaching panel, and he has made this decision in the best interests of the club,” Richardson said.
“This was a decision Mark has been reflecting on for some weeks, and following discussions regarding the potential restructure of the coaching department, Mark felt it was the right time to step aside and explore a new chapter in his career.
“We thank Mark for his service and dedication, and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
The position of game performance coach will not be replaced.
“This is an opportunity for John and the performance coaches to create greater clarity and alignment in the brand of football we want to play,” Richardson said.
“We also believe this is an opportunity for our coaches to develop, be more empowered in their roles, and have greater input into the strategic direction of the team.
“Our coaching group is well resourced and experienced, and we do not believe this decision will have a detrimental impact on coaching panel or the team’s performance moving forward.”
Neeld is looking forward to new career pathways.
“After discussions with the club, including the potential restructure of the coaching group, I felt now was the right time to move on,” Neeld said.
“I feel this decision is in the best interests of the club, and for myself and my family.
“I’m currently completing my Masters of Business Administration, and will look at pursuing a career pathway in management.
“I would like to thank the club for the opportunity over the past three years, and I hope John and the team can achieve the success they are all working hard to achieve.”
From the CEO.
— Essendon FC (@EssendonFC) May 14, 2018
Watch 👇 pic.twitter.com/FeWzMIqX7U
EARLIER
Essendon game performance manager Mark Neeld has been sacked, according to SEN's Sam McClure.
It has been reported Neeld informed the playing group of his decision on Monday.
In the 2018 AFL season guide, it describes Neeld’s role as working “closely with senior coach John Worsfold…the pair devise the Bombers’ game-plan and strategy.”
He was an assistant coach at Collingwood from 2008-11, before spending two seasons at Melbourne as senior coach.