Melbourne star Clayton Oliver is back training with teammates for the first time since taking extended leave from the club.
Oliver took part in Wednesday’s session at Gosch’s Paddock and was seen in good spirits appearing alongside other Demons in the rehab group.
The star midfielder, who trained solo on Monday and didn’t attend the club’s photo day on Tuesday, has been away from training since he left Melbourne’s pre-season camp in Lorne in mid December.
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As the 26-year old takes the first steps of moving back into Melbourne’s full-time program, it’s still not known when Oliver will return to full training or his availability for the Demons’ Opening Round clash against Sydney on March 7.
Not returning to training with the rest of his teammates after the new year’s break, it was decided the four-time best and fairest winner would spent time away from the club to focus on his personal issues.
“Clayton has personal issues that he has been dealing with. Clayton has been working extremely closely with his personal medical team, and with the support of key club staff, in order to manage these challenges,” Demons football boss Alan Richardson said earlier this month.
“The club fully supports Clayton taking this important time out which will allow him to focus on these challenges.”
It follows a challenging 2023 season for Oliver where he was restricted to just 15 AFL games due to a hamstring injury.
Speculation then surrounded his future after the Demons considered putting Oliver on the trade table over concerns with his behaviour, with Adelaide among the clubs circling the premiership on-baller.
Oliver was hospitalised in October after suffering a seizure and unable to drive on medical grounds. He’ll face court next month after being pulled over by police in November for driving with a suspended license.
The three-time All-Australian has played 162 AFL games since making his debut in 2016.
