Ollie Henry has broken his silence on his controversial trade request and move from Collingwood to Geelong.
Henry, reportedly wishing to be closer to family, wished to move from the Melbourne CBD back down the highway, with the trade taking until the final moments of deadline day.
The call drew the ire of Magpies fans and raised eyebrows around the league.
Releasing a statement on Instagram, Henry said he doesn’t expect Collingwood fans to agree with his decision.
“Firstly, I want to thank Collingwood from the bottom of my heart for giving me the opportunity to play for such a historic team; I am forever in debt to you,” Henry wrote.
“To my teammates along the way, thank you for everything we have done together, we have made friendships for life and memories to tell.
“All the best for new Magpie players entering and also the few exiting, may it be a bright future ahead for you.
“And lastly the Magpie supporters... I don't ask for you to agree or support my decision but I do want to thank all of you for making my job exciting the last two years!”
The post has drawn supportive messages from ex-teammates Nick Daicos, Mason Cox and Pat Lipinski among others.
Henry played 25 games for Collingwood after being drafted in the first round of the 2020 National Draft, including 15 in 2022.
He now joins brother Jack at the reigning premiers.