Melbourne have refuted speculation surrounding midfielder Clayton Oliver that there is tension between the star Demon and the club.
Oliver's future has been of great interest externally despite the four-time best and fairest winner having six more years to run on his long-term contract with Melbourne.
The 27-year-old was linked to a potential departure last off-season amid concerns from the Demons over his expectations, with Adelaide and Geelong reportedly among the rival clubs to ask the question of his services.
Following discussions between Oliver and key figures of the club, all parties decided it would be best for Oliver to remain in the red and blue, where he would have the needed support around him.
A well-documented off-season of personal matters and health battles saw the gun ball winner endure an interrupted pre-season, with Oliver eventually able to overcome adversity and be ready to play in Melbourne's season opener.
The limited preparation for Oliver has likely had an impact on his ability this season, with Oliver's numbers and output down compared to years gone by.
The situation has led to further questions and theories over Oliver's future with the Demons, who have squashed any suggestion he could depart the club amid some form of tension between the two parties.
Speaking to media on Wednesday, Melbourne assistant Andrew McQualter said he was unsure where the latest speculation surrounding Oliver came from but denied any truth to it.
"It's just not true," the former Richmond caretaker coach said.
"Clayton is great. He's really determined to play great footy for us and be a great teammate. You look at him every time he comes to training and the kid is hungry to improve.
"He probably hasn't played as well as he has in previous years, but he's still doing a role for us. I think 'Goody' mentioned recently that teams are still tagging him, so there's still stuff he's doing right.
"He's determined to improve."
Oliver is contracted with Melbourne until the end of the 2030 season and has played every game for the Demons this season - a feat initially seen as unlikely given his off-season battles.
The contested onballer is still averaging 23.5 disposals, 4.1 tackles and 4.3 clearances per game in 2024 as the Demons look to break back into the top eight without star midfielder Christian Petracca.
Melbourne are likely to regain captain Max Gawn for Saturday's meeting against GWS after the premiership skipper missed the past two matches with a foot/ankle injury.
