Port Adelaide midfielder Sam Powell-Pepper has stepped away from the club to take personal leave.
The 23-year-old is currently dealing with a broken hand, but has been granted leave for mental health reasons.
Powell-Pepper spoke via the club’s website on Thursday night.
“Along with the rehabilitation of my broken hand, there are other parts of my life that need some work right now,” Powell-Pepper said.
“I appreciate the support of the club, my coaches and teammates with this.”
Port Adelaide GM of football Chris Davies said the club’s full support was behind the youngster.
“Sam will be offered the time and support he needs and we look forward to his return when he is ready,” Davies said.
Power coach Ken Hinkley says there is some idea of a return date for Powell-Pepper but insists the club will not rush him.
“We do a little (have a return date in mind) but we’re just going to give Sam the time and space he needs to focus on his health and wellbeing,” he said on SEN Breakfast.
“We’ll make sure whenever that is we’ll be ready to help and welcome him back but I think really importantly now, as it’s a personal and private matter, that we give him time and space.”
The club at this stage expects him to return in April.
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