AFL Trade 2023: Bombshell deal off as Clayton Oliver commits to Melbourne

Melbourne have finally responded to the talk surrounding Clayton Oliver. Plus read about the failed tattoo attempt, the man that was crucial to Clarry staying and more.

Melbourne will give Clayton Oliver its full support to confront the personal issues which have affected his professionalism and preparation this season after ditching the idea of trading him.

Oliver met with coach Simon Goodwin on Thursday where the pair discussed their willingness to help him reach his full potential in red and blue over the course of his blockbuster seven-year contract.

It is a deal which will see Oliver become one of the highest paid players in the AFL, but Melbourne has taken a firm stance on some of the off-field behaviour and inconsistencies in his attitude this year.

The club wanted Oliver to commit to a higher standard of professionalism and respect for others and has vowed to continue to support the four-time best and fairest winner with some mental health challenges.

Oliver is known to have difficulties trying to have a full night’s sleep which can have an impact on the way he prepares and presents for his footballing commitments.

But the example he sets as a leader of the football team was a concern for the Demons as they look to improve on the back of consecutive straight sets finals exits.

READ MELBOURNE’S LETTER TO MEMBERS IN FULL BELOW

Clayton Oliver is staying at Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein

Oliver was also hospitalised this season due to an infected blister on his foot.

It is believed the problem stemmed from an attempt to draw a tattoo on himself as he struggled to deal with his recurring hamstring issue in the back half of the season.

Football manager Alan Richardson also frequently helped Oliver with his living situation including the upkeep of his home.

Incidents of questionable off-field behaviour have been closely guarded by the club, which has been determined to help protect and support its midfield dynamo across his eight seasons at Melbourne.

Sources said Richardson has been a crucial figure in helping keep Oliver at the club, amid strong rival interest.

The Demons also discussed a trade which could secure it the No.1 pick and star underage prospect Harley Reid.

It was a turbulent few days for the club and Oliver who had frank discussions about his future in red and blue since the end of the season.

Melbourne chief executive Gary Pert said the club would not trade the sublime onballer but would not waver on the standards it expects of its players.

“The club has been aware of and supporting Clayton with his personal circumstances for some time and is committed to continuing to do so,” Pert said.

“While club leaders focus on the care and support Clayton needs, we also have a responsibility to uphold our strong club culture for the benefit of all our players and staff,” Pert said.

Oliver has spoken with coach Simon Goodwin about making significant improvements in his professionalism. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos

“We have a responsibility to ensure that everyone within the club is committed to meeting the expected behavioural standards of a player within an AFL high performance environment.

“Clayton understands what is expected of him as a professional athlete, as well as the standards and behaviours a Melbourne person is expected to uphold.”

Oliver, 26, arrived late for his exit interview and has since moved in with captain Max Gawn and his young family in a bid to help support him through a challenging period.

It is understood the exit meeting prompted more discussions about his future.

Adelaide was considered the frontrunner if Oliver explored a trade due to his relationship with fitness boss Darren Burgess.

There was a belief Oliver would have found a trade to a new team and new environment challenging.

Melbourne officials are happy Oliver is staying, but there will be considerable efforts made to help support him over the off-season break.

Clayton Oliver at Melbourne's best and fairest with mate Alex Gugliotti.

The Demons want to ensure he returns for preseason training in great shape to help lead Melbourne to another finals campaign next season and beyond under re-signed coach Simon Goodwin.

Teammate Christian Petracca said the Demons were well-placed to wrap their arms around Oliver amid the speculation about his future.

“Yeah, he is fine. He is one of my close friends,” Petracca said on Kiss 101 radio on Friday.

“One of the biggest things in footy clubs is culture, culture will always be at the forefront for everyone, so I think that is the biggest thing we are focussing on at the moment.”

Pert said the club did not have any talks with rival clubs about a trade.

“I would like to acknowledge that we understand the frustration among members and supporters when our players are discussed in the media as potential trade targets,” Pert said.

“At no stage has the club entered discussions with any club regarding a trade for Clayton. Furthermore, Clayton has not requested a trade and will remain at the Melbourne Football Club.”

Originally published as AFL Trade 2023: Bombshell deal off as Clayton Oliver commits to Melbourne