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Gary Ablett's term as Gold Coast captain is all but over as a troubled family situation in Geelong continues.
Ablett did not return for day one of pre-season training with the Suns. He was on a club-approved trip for his delayed honeymoon with wife Jordan.
As revealed by Fairfax Media last month, Ablett requested a move to back to Geelong during the trade period, citing family reasons. It is understood his wife also wants the move.
Geelong were keen to get their former premiership star back, but would have struggled to fit him in the salary cap. However, the Suns refused to even entertain the possibility.
According to News Corp, Ablett sent a message to his Suns teammates this week, to explain why he requested the trade.
The message comes after his former teammate, Campbell Brown, tweeted that current Gold Coast players were "filthy" that the Brownlow medallist was not back in training.
"Firstly, I honestly didn't think it would happen and secondly, the reasons behind it awkwardly restricted me in discussing this with people," Ablett wrote.
"I just want you to know that there has been some pretty significant things going on in my immediate family and have been for a few years now. Over the last 12-18 months things have deteriorated which prompted me to consider the possibility of a trade.
"I just want you guys to know that the club is aware of our circumstances and expressed their care and have offered to support where possible.
"Please know that I am honestly REALLY looking forward to next year and being 100% committed to you boys and the club, despite my own circumstances."
Ablett spent three weeks at the club after the 2016 season to continue to work on his injured shoulder.
Fairfax Media reported last month that the Suns look likely to appoint dual captains to replace Ablett. The role is expected to be shared by All-Australian forward Tom Lynch and defender Steven May.
The club considered replacing Ablett as captain last season but stuck with him believing that the potential contenders for the role were too inexperienced.
Former Bulldog and Bomber Adam Cooney jumped to Ablett's defence following Brown's tweet, saying "players who have played as long as he has are entitled to an extra week".
Port Adelaide great Kane Cornes joined Cooney in defending Ablett.
"I'm not sure they can be too angry, he's carried them for six years," he said. "I understand it's not ideal but I reckon he's got some points up his sleeve."
Fairfax Media