Lachie Neale's coach says player may move to be closer to family

Coach Chris Fagan said he hopes Lachie Neale remains at Brisbane but would support a move to Western Australia to be near his children; Neale has stepped down as co-captain and will be an unrestricted free agent at season's end.

Brisbane coach Chris Fagan has addressed Lachie Neale's future after the player stepped down as co-captain amid a family separation. Fagan said he hopes Neale will remain with the Lions beyond the upcoming AFL season. He added the club would support Neale if he chooses to move back to Western Australia to be near his children. Neale is out of contract at season's end and will be an unrestricted free agent. Key details: - Fagan said he hopes Neale stays but would not prevent a move to Western Australia to be close to his children. - Neale stepped down as co-captain on January 2 and publicly acknowledged personal failings. - Neale's wife has returned to Perth with their two children, as reported. - Neale will be out of contract at the end of the season and is an unrestricted free agent. Summary: Fagan described the situation as a private family matter and said the club will support Neale and his family. Neale has relinquished the co-captaincy and remains contracted through the upcoming season; at season's end he will be an unrestricted free agent and able to decide his next move.