MELBOURNE Football Club midfielder Clayton Oliver will miss the Demons’ Round 8 match against West Coast to prioritise his wellbeing.

Following open dialogue between Clayton and the club, it was decided that missing this weekend’s game was the best thing for Clayton’s health.

General Manager of AFL Football Performance Alan Richardson said:

“Clayton has had a difficult week personally and as such, both he and the club have agreed that it would be best for him not to play against the Eagles on Saturday. 

“We expect Clayton to return to the program next week, but as always his mental and physical health will be the priority.

“As an industry, it’s pleasing to see the progress we’ve made in normalising players putting their hand up when they need support.

“The club’s focus is on surrounding Clayton with the care he needs and we ask that his privacy is respected.”

Melbourne will name its full side for the clash in Perth at 6.20pm AEST.