AFL Players’ CEO Paul Marsh has issued the following statement:

The AFL Players’ Association can confirm that the players’ legal team has now spoken to the majority of the 34 players who have been issued with show cause notices, and will seek to speak to the remainder of the players in coming days.

Contrary to media reports and speculation, the players remain steadfast in their position that they are not looking to resolve this matter through a ‘deal’ with ASADA.

Players continue to take the view that they have done nothing wrong and despite numerous requests, players have not been provided with any evidence to suggest otherwise.

This matter has already severely disrupted two AFL seasons and taken an enormous toll on the players involved.

As such, the players want this matter to proceed as soon as possible.  For this to happen ASADA needs to provide the evidence it has and we call on them to do so urgently.

There has been speculation that Essendon Football Club or James Hird will seek to appeal the decision made by Justice Middleton. That is a matter for them.