Essendon Football Club wishes to advise that Nathan Lovett-Murray voluntarily admitted himself in to a rehabilitation clinic last week.

Nathan has recently been working through a number of health issues and decided to seek treatment for an alcohol related problem.

The AFL Players’ Association, Essendon Football Club and Nathan’s management company continue to provide ongoing support to Nathan and his family.

Players’ Association General Manager Player Relations, Ian Prendergast said it was important Nathan’s privacy be respected during this time.

“This is a personal health issue and we would ask that Nathan’s privacy be respected. The period after retiring from football can be difficult and the chance to recover without undue and damaging public scrutiny is important.

We have services available to offer assistance to Nathan and he has the continuing support of the Players’ Association and the AFL community during this time.”

Essendon CEO Ray Gunston said the club had offered its full support to Nathan and his family.

“Our first priority is the health and welfare of Nathan,” Gunston said.

“We have been in contact with his family and offered our full support to help with his recovery.”

“It is important the media respect the privacy of Nathan and his family during this time – Essendon Football Club will be making no further comment,” Gunston said.

Nathan Lovett-Murray retired at the end of the 2013 season after 145 games with the Bombers. Nathan has been an important leader of indigenous players and a respected member of his community.

For more information about personal health issues visit http://www.headspace.org.au/