FREMANTLE midfielder Harley Bennell will remain an AFL player and could even be playing football within two months.
The Dockers released a statement this afternoon saying Bennell had met with club officials to discuss his actions at Peel Thunder’s WAFL fixture over the weekend.
Bennell, who has not played a game for the Dockers after shifting from Gold Coast at the end of 2015, was spotted pulling his cousin away from a team huddle.
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READ NOWHe is currently on a long injury lay-off.
“We have an agreed action plan as how to best assist Harley with his personal wellbeing and his return to playing football,” Bond said.
“With respect to football, we have a rehabilitation and training program in place for Harley to return to playing, initially for Peel, in the next five to six weeks.
“Given Harley’s previous commitment to rehabilitation and training in accordance with his program, we are confident that he will give himself the best chance to get back to playing.”
The club also imposed a $10,000 sanction on Bennell, with $5000 suspended for 12 months.
“With regard to his off-field conduct since his injury setback, it has been made clear to Harley what expectations the club and his teammates have and the standards and behaviours that need to be maintained,” Bond said.