Adelaide Crows forward Tyson Stengle has been stood down by the club after off-field incident

Adelaide forward Tyson Stengle has been stood down by the club after a photo prompted another Crows investigation into his off-field behaviour. See it here.

Tyson Stengle has been stood down by the Crows after finding himself in hot water for the third time this year. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Crows small forward Tyson Stengle has been stood down and his career hangs in the balance after an image of the 22-year-old sent to the club sparked yet another investigation into his off-field behaviour.

Adelaide released a statement on Monday morning saying it was aware of an off-field matter involving young forward Stengle, who has been stood down from all club duties effective immediately as it ascertains all relevant details on the situation.

It is understood on Sunday, Adelaide was provided with a photo of Stengle in which he is pictured in front of a plate of what appears to be an illicit substance, prompting a swift club investigation.

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Part of the image of Tyson Stengle that sparked a swift Crows investigation. Picture: 7 News Adelaide

The Crows subsequently informed the AFL, the AFL Integrity Unit and the AFL Players Association.

The Advertiser understands the image relates to an incident that took place after Stengle was caught with drugs in the city with former teammate Brad Crouch in September.

It’s another unwanted headache for the Crows, coming the day after young player Josh Worrell was pulled over for using his phone while driving and was found to have a blood alcohol reading of 0.056 – just over the legal limit.

Worrell had stayed the night at a teammate’s house and was driving home when stopped by police. He has not been charged but is expected to be issued with an expiation notice.

“The club is working closely with the AFL and AFL Players Association, as well as Stengle’s management in relation to this matter,” the Crows said.

“While the club acknowledges there will be significant media and public interest, it is not in a position to make further comment at this stage.

“More information will be provided as soon as possible.”

The suspension comes after two further incidents this year involving the 22-year-old – a drink-driving charge in April and the city drug bust.

Stengle in action for the Crows this season. Picture: Sarah Reed

Stengle was banned by the club for four games for the drink-driving indiscretion and for another four matches for “conduct unbecoming” in relation to being caught with an illicit substance.

After the September incident, Stengle used Instagram to apologise for his actions.

“I have let down my family, friends, the Adelaide Football Club and the AFL community,” he said.

“To the loyal Crows supporters, members, sponsors and to the young boys and girls who aspire to be a footy player and look up to me, I have let you down. I am sorry.

“There is no excuse for my behaviour. I will now work hard to try and earn your trust back and repay the faith and the love you have shown in me.”

Stengle after his court appearance in October. Picture: Keryn Stevens

Stengle has played 16 AFL games including 14 at Adelaide after being traded from Richmond at the end of the 2018 season.

The Crows, who finished bottom for the first time in club history in 2020, are in the middle of a rebuild, of which Stengle was seen as a future small forward of the ilk of former star Eddie Betts.

This season, Stengle played a career-high 12 games in which he kicked eight goals and averaged 9.75 disposals.

In August, he signed a new contract, keeping at the club until the end of 2022. Stengle’s management has been contacted for comment.

Originally published as Adelaide Crows forward Tyson Stengle has been stood down by the club after off-field incident