Footy club warned about dressing room invites after alarm was raised over two stars bringing their mates in after game

The AFL Integrity Unit has contacted Essendon to express concern after associates of players were allowed in the dressing room after matches.

According to the Herald Sun, the Bombers have been warned after associates of forward Jake Stringer and delisted star Nick Hind – who are both in the same friendship group – were seen more than once in the dressing room this season.

The AFL told the same outlet that it has advised an unnamed club that friends of a player were not welcome, but refused to name the club or player.

They also did not reveal the reason why the warning was given.

Stringer’s future with the Bombers is unclear and reports suggest he is exploring a possible trade despite being contracted until the end of 2025.

Rival clubs are said to be aware of the intriguing situation involving Stringer, his associates and AFL Integrity.

Stringer had been linked with a move to Collingwood but that interest has cooled, while minor premiers Sydney are also keeping close tabs on the forward.

Stringer told the Herald Sun in May that he has explored Islam after meeting a Muslim man last December at a sponsor’s barbecue. He was then invited to attend a mosque.

According to the Herald Sun, the AFL have expressed concern about the Bombers allowing associates of Jake Stringer in the dressing room

‘I talk to him every day and see him most days since then,’ Stringer said of his newfound relationship.

‘The guys there have been massive for me this year, just helping me to find a very good balance. Their brotherhood is amazing and it’s something I’ve loved from the moment I met them.’

The AFL rarely intervenes with regard to player associations. Back in 2013, Tigers star Jake King was advised not to allow Toby Mitchell, a bikie underworld figure, into the rooms.

Mitchell was seen in the sheds following a win over Brisbane in round 20, an incident which was described as ‘pretty stupid’ by former Andrew Demetriou at the time. 

King was later seen with Mitchell on a number of occasions in the following months, which tested the patience of those at Richmond.  

Former Tigers chief executive Brendon Gale said at the time:  ‘We’ve brought it to Jake’s attention that he should think long and hard about those sorts of friendships and connections and associations.’