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RICHMOND and former Bendigo Pioneers player Daniel Connors have "mutually agreed to part ways" according to a statement on the club's website.
The midfielder and his star teammate Dustin Martin failed to attend training yesterday morning, incurring the wrath of the club’s leadership group and administration.
The pair missed training as a result of taking sleeping medication on Monday night.
“We have set a standard as a football club and there is a clear expectation that our players meet that standard. Adhering to training requirements is not negotiable,” said Richmond’s General Manager of Football, Craig Cameron.
“Daniel has failed to meet club expectations on a number of occasions and this latest incident can’t be considered in isolation."
The transgression was the first for Martin who grew up in Castlemaine.
"Dustin understands that missing training is simply unacceptable,” he said.
“We want to send a strong message that we don’t accept this sort of behaviour and Dustin is now fully aware of this.
“More broadly, our medical staff will continue to educate our entire playing group and emphasise that prescribed medication needs to be taken as directed, and the significant dangers associated with not doing so."
Connors, from Echuca, was drafted to Richmond from the Bendigo Pioneers in 2006 and made his debut in 2007.
He was suspended for eight matches two seasons ago after an alcohol-fuelled incident at a Sydney hotel that involved former teammate Ben Cousins.
He was in trouble again following a series of social mishaps over the pre-season and was given a final chance by coach Damien Hardwick two weeks ago when he was returned to the senior side to take on Greater Western Sydney.
It is alleged that the latest misdemeanour took place after the Tigers’ loss to Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Saturday.
Martin will miss matches against Melbourne on Saturday and the Gold Coast the following weekend.
Richmond are currently 11th on the AFL ladder with six wins and seven losses.
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