Former Essendon, Carlton and GWS ruckman Andrew Phillips has shot down any chance of a potential AFL return via the Mid-Season Draft.
Phillips, 32, has returned to his home state of Tasmania since hanging up the boots at the cessation of the 2023 season - his 12th year in the AFL.
The 201cm ruckman spent time with GWS and Carlton before joining the Bombers, who he played half of his 82 career games with between 2020-2023.
While still a desired player at Tullamarine, Phillips made the decision last year to call time on his career and head back to Tasmania, where he has since joined his junior club Lauderdale.
This week it had ben reported by AFL.com.au that Phillips had garnered interest ahead of the Mid-Season Draft by clubs keen to add to their ruck stocks, before the publication's Riley Beveridge revealed the AFL would not grant Phillips an exemption to be selected.
Players who retired from the league last season are not permitted to be drafted via the Mid-Season Draft unless seen as an exceptional case in the eyes of the league.
While clubs were keen on Phillips, the ruckman revealed on Friday that he's had no desire to return to the top flight.
Speaking to SEN, Phillips said he was unaware of the interest from clubs that Beveridge reported on.
"It's never crossed my mind, it's never been something that's come across my table," Phillips revealed.
"I'm not sure who he's spoken to or what clubs are interested. My phone hasn't been calling or no mail has been popped in my letterbox or anything.
"I'm happy and I retired. I must be."
Clubs keen on signing ruck talent through the Mid-Season Draft could look toward Geelong Falcons youngster Joe Pike or former Port Adelaide tall Brynn Teakle.
Teakle has returned to the WAFL for the 2024 season following a stint with Collingwood during the pre-season as a potential Supplemental Selection Period acquisition.
The 24-year-old has found strong form for East Fremantle so far this year to earn a spot in Western Australia's state side for Sunday's clash with the SANFL.