Clayton Oliver leaves Melbourne Demons training camp in Lorne, dealing with some issues

Troubled Melbourne star Clayton Oliver made an early exit from his team’s training camp in Lorne on Monday night as he continues to deal with “some issues” following a tumultuous 2023.

Oliver made his way to the first day of the training camp on Monday before heading back to Melbourne with football boss Alan Richardson confirming the four-time best and fairest was “taking a break” after discussions with club staff.

“Clayton is taking a break as he continues to deal with some issues,” Richardson said.

“We are continuing to support Clayton and managing his program in a way that prioritises his health and wellbeing.

“His teammates and staff remain confident he is making good progress.”

Oliver has dealt with personal issues throughout this season including injuries, medical issues and questions over his behaviour and was also the subject of fierce trade rumours.

Last Friday it was revealed the 26-year-old premiership hero he will face court next year after being caught driving without a licence.

The Demons have been working closely with Oliver and last week Melbourne CEO Gary Pert said he was “in a great headspace” despite his troubled year.

Oliver also suffered the seizure when he was at teammate Joel Smith’s house before Smith was provisionally suspended after testing positive to cocaine in a sample taken after the Demons win over Hawthorn in Rd 23.

During Melbourne’s annual members footy forum, Pert defended Oliver and the club’s culture.

“He wants to be part of something really special,”

“There’s been some quite high-profile player incidents in the off-season,” Pert said.

“I want to reassure all Melbourne members and supporters . . . the culture of the Melbourne FC is very strong and very resilient, and it starts with these guys here (the club’s leadership). It’s a very strong and aligned culture.

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“A strong culture is about calling out when individuals aren’t in alignment with the culture, about holding people accountable.

“We will have challenges of people not being in alignment . . . (but) we’ll continue to drive our cultural programs through our leaders.

Melbourne captain Max Gawn arrived at Lorne on Wednesday after the birth of his second child.

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