Carlton silent on Lyon claims
CARLTON is staying silent over questions about whether it has sought details from Fremantle about an AFL integrity unit investigation into Ross Lyon.
The former Dockers coach has been widely tipped to take over from David Teague at Carlton next year.
Lyon took Fremantle and St Kilda to grand finals and has been lauded for his football knowledge.
However, he was the subject of an AFL integrity unit investigation in 2018.
Dale Alcock, Fremantle board member, apologised to the female employee at a press conference that year who made a complaint.
“I apologise to our former employee who is the subject of the matter currently in the media,” Mr Alcock said.
“I’m sorry for the stress and duress this matter, and subsequent media attention, has caused her and the people closest to her.”
Fremantle backed Lyon as coach following the investigation, while the Dockers coach said he never questioned his role.
“For everyone involved, and for everyone who has been drawn in, it’s a really difficult situation,” Lyon said.
“At no stage have I questioned my coaching or my commitment to this club.
“I’ve coached for 22 years, 12 years as a senior coach, and I stand by my record.”
Lyon never directly addressed the allegations subject to the investigation, citing confidentiality.
He was asked about it during his regular live cross on Channel 7 in Perth when reports were made public, but
Lyon refused to answer questions about the matter.
Carlton was asked about its attitude towards Lyon as reports continued to mount that he was favourite to take over at the Blues.
Alastair Clarkson and Don Pyke were also in the mix for the coaching role, with the club insistent that no decision had yet been made.
Carlton has commissioned an independent review, which it has now received, and was considering what the next steps would be.
The club declined to comment on whether it had sought information from Fremantle about the incident.
The Blues also did not respond to questions about whether board member Patty Kinnersly had a view on Lyon’s potential appointment.
Ms Kinnersly directed questions to the club.
Carlton was one of the first clubs in the AFL to get an AFLW licence, and it plays in orange socks each year to promote gender equality.
Lyon did not return calls or respond to questions sent via text message.