Fremantle CEO Steve Rosich and senior coach Ross Lyon have dismissed spurious claims reportedly made by Brad Hardie on 6PR that Lyon approached Collingwood about becoming their next coach.

“Our club has a policy of not responding to rumour and innuendo, however in this case, because the report is utterly false and personal in nature, we felt compelled as a club to issue today’s statement,” Rosich said.

“Ross is contracted to the club through to the end of the 2020 season and has made it very clear that he is firmly committed to his role as senior coach of the Fremantle Football Club.

“His sole focus is on returning the team to a pathway of sustained finals success.

“Ross’ application and dedication to what we are trying to achieve as a club has not wavered and can not be questioned.”

Given the timing of the fabricated claim, Lyon said it was important that he and the club respond to reassure all Fremantle members and supporters of his commitment to the players and the club.

“I am bitterly disappointed that such so called journalism even sees the light of day,” Lyon said.

“I have contacted Brad Hardie directly and voiced my disgust at his comments.

“They are totally without foundation and not based on fact in anyway, shape or form.

“Such an erroneous and reckless claim should be exposed for what it is – a complete fabrication and a falsehood.

“It is also important for our members and supporters to know that I couldn’t be more be committed to what we are trying to achieve as a club at the Fremantle Dockers.

“I can assure our members and supporters that I am totally focused on returning the club to sustained finals success.”