The Players’ Association has welcomed the announcement of the AFL Anti-Doping tribunal’s decision, to be handed down on Tuesday 31st March.

CEO Paul Marsh said: “After more than two years of extensive attention, speculation and pressure on the players from the Essendon Football Club, the PA is looking forward to receiving the tribunal’s decision on 31 March and hopefully finally bringing this matter to a close.

“Our primary concern has, and will continue to be, the wellbeing of the players. Whilst the players’ resilience in these trying and complex circumstances has been remarkable, the next 18 days will be extremely challenging as they anxiously await the tribunal’s decision.

“In the interest of the players, we ask that ongoing speculation about the tribunal’s decision be discontinued and the independence and confidentiality of the tribunal’s process be respected.”