The following statement is to be attributed to AFL Players’ Association General Manager of Player Relations, Brett Murphy:

The AFL Players’ Association has contacted players at all clubs following Saturday night’s incident at Etihad Stadium, and asked for their views on the synthetic turf. The issue was also tabled at the AFLPA board meeting last night.

Players have expressed concerns regarding the proximity of the synthetic turf to the playing surface, which makes it more difficult to slow down and/or change direction, potentially contributing to injuries such as that suffered by Daniel Menzel.

The players also feel that the synthetic turf is harder and more abrasive than natural turf, leading to more painful injuries when landing or sliding.

We have raised these concerns with the AFL and requested that this matter be reviewed in a timely manner, with a view to finding a better solution.

We will continue to work closely with the AFL and players to ensure that the playing surface is as safe as possible.