“Our job as a football club … is just to embrace him and his family and help them where we can. Other than that, it’s a private matter. That’s where we stand.”
Fagan said the implications of Neale’s football career collapse would become clearer as the year went on and the Lions would support whatever decision Neale made – whether that meant returning to Perth or staying in Brisbane.
Two Perth-based clubs, West Coast and Fremantle, would certainly entertain the idea of recruiting Neale, who played with the Dockers before joining the Lions, should he indicate a desire to change clubs.
Fagan said no one knew if such a move would happen.
“I don’t even know the answer to that,” Fagan said when asked about a potential move at the end of the season.
“I hope so. [remain with the Lions] but he’s an unrestricted free agent … so he can make the call he needs to do and he probably needs another six or seven months to figure out what the next right move is.
Neale and Fagan at the 2024 grand final showdownCredit: AFL photo
“As I say, I hope he stays and plays with us, but if he decides to move back to Perth because he needs to be close to his children, then he will do so with our blessing.
“We’re not going to hold anyone to ransom – we’re just going with the flow.”
Fagan said he expected Neale to have another good season, despite the personal issues surrounding him.
“Lachie is a guy who can focus on what he’s doing,” Fagan said.
Fagan revealed that new faces will be joining the club’s management, with veteran Charlie Cameron also leaving to focus on his football side, while Oscar McInerney (retired) and Brandon Starcevich (move to the West Coast) also created vacancies.
The Lions will go through the normal process of appointing captains in February, with Fagan unsure whether Harris Andrews will continue as sole captain or be joined in the role by Hugh McCluggage or Josh Dunkley.
The Lions’ roster is in good shape physically as they prepare to tilt for a third straight premiership.
“This group knows what it’s like to win a premiership,” Fagan said. “We will always look for motives to motivate [the group].”
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