Andy McGrath puts AFL contract talks on hold amid Essendon’s poor start to the season

Andrew McGrath has put contract talks on hold as Essendon struggle through the first half of the AFL season.

The Bombers sit 16th on the ladder with just one win to their name.

Now the slow start has prompted McGrath, 23, to wait on signing a new deal.

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The midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season and unlikely to demand a move away from the club.

But his camp sees no reason to rush into re-signing with Essendon this early in the season.

McGrath has maintained similar output to last year, averaging 23 disposals per game.

Essendon midfielder Andy McGrath. Credit: Getty

Meanwhile, AFL clubs are seeking clarification on the dubious medical substitute rule amid suggestions some teams are exploiting a loophole.

The rules say the substitute can be activated during games if the club doctor has ‘reasonably determined’ an injured player will miss 12 days.

If the injury comes good in the days after games, clubs can send the AFL an updated medical report.

Port Adelaide are at the centre of the controversy after Robbie Gray kicked the match-winning point against St Kilda, one week after he was substituted.

Tall forward Mitch Georgiades was taken off the field in that game, replaced by the hard-running Xavier Duursma.

Port Adelaide sources say Georgiades was injured, only barely passing a fitness test in the warm-up.

Sources indicate football boss Brad Scott is looking into the use of the rule.

Andy McGrath puts AFL contract talks on hold amid Essendon’s poor start to the season
Independent Information