Star Bulldog Bailey Smith has taken an indefinite period of leave from the Western Bulldogs.
The 21-year-old is among the best young midfielders in the competition and was one of the club’s best throughout their finals campaign.
The Herald Sun reported on Friday night that Smith was dealing with personal issues including family matters.
Bulldogs football boss Chris Grant has since confirmed to News Corp the club will support the youngster to return whenever he feels ready.
“We remain in close contact with Bailey, and we respect and understand his need to spend some time away from the club at the moment,” Grant said.
“With such a short training block before the Christmas break for the AFL squad; we are comfortable to afford Bailey the time he needs.
“We’ll support him throughout, and he’ll return when he is ready. “Bailey has maintained an extremely high level of physical conditioning throughout his entire career, and we’re looking forward to reintegrating him into the program at the appropriate time.”
Smith has been open about his struggles with mental health in the past, including dealing with the limelight as one of the AFL’s most recognisable players.
The Dogs have also allowed Tim English and Aaron Naughton to return to Western Australia to train, with Caleb Daniel to fly to South Australia.