Clayton Oliver showed his frustration at training in July.Credit:AFL Photos,Nine
Speaking to Melbourne officials and people close to Oliver at the time,it seemed the relationship was destined for disaster,but his return to playing on the eve of the finals was seen by both parties as an opportunity to start afresh.
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However,in the days followingthe Demons’ semi-final loss to Carlton,things fell apart again.
Two senior club sources,who would not speak publicly because of the delicate nature of the issue,confirmed to this column that Oliver turned up to his personal exit meeting over an hour late.
Because of that,he was told by the club not to attend the group exit review with the rest of his teammates. Instead,he was addressed individually by coach Simon Goodwin,who has been one of Oliver’s closest confidants and biggest supporters.
It is incredible,however,that Oliver,in the prime of his career at 26 and with seven seasons left on a mega contract,could be a chance to leave the club.