Melbourne skipper Jones clarifies ‘booze ban’ claims

Melbourne co-captain Nathan Jones has confirmed there is no self-imposed collective booze ban at the club.

Young Demons star Clayton Oliver has sworn off alcohol for the remainder of the season to ensure he continues to perform at an optimal level.

But Jones says recent talk of a full club-imposed ban is wide of the mark.

“I was a bit flabbergasted, because I had a couple of quiet beers after the win on the weekend,” Jones told SEN’s Time On.

“Whether or not Clayton (Oliver) has taken that up on his own, or Christian (Petracca) might have mentioned it as well.

“But as far as a club wide thing, it couldn’t be any further from the truth.

“It was more of a discussion that we’ve got an important month of footy left and we just don’t want players out.

“Recovery is at the forefront of our minds and we’re trying to get the best out of each other for the remainder of the season.

“Whether that means you limit how much you drink or don’t drink at all, our players are adults and professional athletes.

“It’s just about making the right decisions. It was more of a minor discussion and it’s been blown fully out into a booze ban.

“No booze ban as such, we’ll enjoy the wins along the way but just do it accordingly. I don’t think they work to be honest and neither do curfews.

“The boys can have a few glasses of red or head out together and have a few beers, but as I said it’s making those choices to make sure you’re giving yourself the best opportunity to perform.”

Melbourne take on Gold Coast at the MCG on Sunday as they continue to surge towards a finals berth.

Listen to Nathan Jones' chat on SEN's Time On with Sam McClure in the player below