The AFL Players’ Association has offered our support services to Lance Franklin and commend him on his courage in dealing with what is a very personal and challenging issue.

Mental illness is a serious issue that effects one in five individuals and AFL footballers are not immune. It can impact anyone in society and does not discriminate.

Our priority remains Lance’s wellbeing and we are pleased that in the Sydney Swans he has the support of a strong and caring club, together with that of the industry more broadly.

The AFLPA joins with the Sydney Swans in asking that Lance’s privacy is respected during this time.