Melbourne forward Mitch Clark on leave from Demons as he battles personal issues

MELBOURNE forward Mitch Clark has been given an extended leave of absence to deal with personal issues.

Mitch Clark has been given an extended leave of absence to deal with personal issues. Pic

MELBOURNE forward Mitch Clark has been given an extended leave of absence to deal with personal issues.

The Sunday Herald Sun ­understands Clark has been battling what the Demons are calling “health issues’ for some time, and will be given as much time as he needs.

The club has been aware of Clark’s issues, but they have intensified in recent days.

There is an expectation the 26-year-old will be away for a significant period of time to tackle the problems.

Clark, recruited from Brisbane three years ago, has been battling a debilitating foot problem for two years and is currently sidelined with a calf issue.

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The former No.9 draft pick was Melbourne’s leading goalscorer in 2011 but has played only 15 games.

The Demons are aware they will need to help him continue with his treatment.

Football manager Josh Mahoney said last night: “The club’s main priority is to provide Mitch with the help he needs during this time. Clearly football comes last in this situation — Mitch is also overcoming a calf injury, and will continue to rehab and condition his physical injury.

“Everyone at the club is behind Mitch and will support him in every way possible.”

The Demons play their season opener against St Kilda next weekend.

Coach Paul Roos and the football department are adamant Clark’s welfare is the only priority and have requested privacy for Clark.