THE West Coast Eagles have announced Willie Rioli will return to the club today.
Rioli, 24, will return to train with the club for the first time since his provisional suspension for allegedly swapping a urine sample, and a subsequent positive test for cannabis, last year.
He is permitted to train with the Eagles pending the final determination of the allegations against him.
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READ NOWThe club said it had worked closely with Rioli on the timing of his return, ensuring he was in the right frame of mind to resume in the AFL environment.
Rioli said he was looking forward to reconnecting with the club.
“It’s good to be back at the club and to see my teammates and staff,” Rioli said.
“The club has been really supportive over the past four months.
“I have been cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation and I will continue to do so.
“I cannot discuss any of the details. I am looking forward to getting back to some training.”
Rioli was provisionally suspended by the AFL on the eve of the semi-final against Geelong last September and has spent much of his time at home in the Tiwi Islands since.
“It’s a great opportunity for him to reconnect with our club – our players and staff,” Eagles coach Adam Simpson said.
“Our main priority is his health and well-being.
“We’re here to help him get through the next couple of days.
“The footy is secondary, it’s about reconnecting with the group.”