AFLPA President Patrick Dangerfield has slammed Damian Barrett for suggesting that Luke Hodge was paid for an on-field interview during his side’s 62-point loss to Collingwood.
Barrett told Hodge in his AFL.com.au column that he should “focus on (his) footy club” rather than pursuing media deals, which prompted a stern response from the two-time Norm Smith medalist on Twitter.
What an absolute knob, you think it was a paid gig? Media want players access, the club asked me to do so I did. https://t.co/Gm2YB9yUVi
— Luke Hodge (@LHodge15) April 19, 2019
Dangerfield saw the column and was disappointed by Barrett’s comments.
I found it totally bemusing that Damian Barrett would hammer Luke Hodge the way that he did,” he told SEN’s Whateley.
“He’s not doing it for remuneration, he’s doing it as a potential segue for his career once footy finishes or it’s to promote the Brisbane brand.
“If he’s going to get hammered by the media, then what hope do others have?
“I’ve had players message me and say they can get stuffed because why would I put myself out there when I’m going to get absolutely hammered for it.
“So I think the broader damage that has had over a short period of time is going to be really negative for the insight of our players which is really disappointing.”
Barrett has since apologised for suggesting that Hodge was rewarded financially for the on-field interview.
Hear Patrick Dangerfield on Whateley in the player below.