Melbourne star Clayton Oliver hasn’t returned alongside his teammates for the first day of pre-season following the holiday period.
The Demons hit the track on Thursday morning at Casey Fields but the club has confirmed Oliver was absent as he continues to focus on his personal challenges.
Oliver endured a tough off-season which saw him linked to a move in the trade period which followed an ultimatum put to him by the club about his behaviour among other issues.
The midfielder also left the club’s training camp in Lorne and was charged with driving on a suspended license in December.
Melbourne’s GM of AFL Performance Alan Richardson says the club is supporting Oliver as he continues to work through his challenges.
“Clayton has personal issues that he has been dealing with. Clayton has been working extremely closely with his personal medical team, and with the support of key Club staff, in order to manage these challenges,” Richardson said via a statement.
“The Club fully supports Clayton taking this important time out which will allow him to focus on these challenges.
“Our primary focus is Clayton’s overall wellbeing, and we will continue to support him through this period.
“It’s important for Clayton that we respect his privacy and his need for time and space.”
The 2021 premiership player has featured 161 times for the Demons and is a four-time club best and fairest winner.
Melbourne begins their 2024 campaign with an Opening Round clash against Sydney on Thursday, March 7 at the SCG.
