Football manager Peter Bell said he was confident Jesse Hogan would be playing his best football for Fremantle in the near future.
The forward will not play for Fremantle in round one while he focuses on his personal management of anxiety after missing the club’s training session on Sunday.
Bell said the club was providing extensive and ongoing support for Hogan.
“Jesse is a quality player. What is important for him is that he’s in a physical and mental state to be able to play week after week, and that’s what we’ll continue to support him with,” Bell said.
“We have depth in our playing list, particularly with the key forwards and I know the guys will support Jesse first and foremost and they’re excited to take on North Melbourne on Sunday.
“Mental health is a huge issue within football and the community at large. (Our support for Jesse) is extensive, it is ongoing and we have a genuine care for him.”
Bell said the club is not putting a timeframe on Hogan’s return but was confident he would play an important role for the club this season.
“I’d ask out members to have confidence that we’re doing everything possible for Jesse,” Bell said.
“We’re confident that very soon he will be in a physical and mental state to get out there and do his best and show the Fremantle public the reputation that he has in football is well deserved.”
Bell said that the Fremantle playing group have been setting a high standard.
“In my time at the football club, I’ve been overwhelmingly impressed with the attitude of the playing group and their application and diligence,” Bell said.
“I’m really excited about the season and I think our fans have every right to be as well.”
