FREMANTLE has emphatically dismissed a Perth radio claim that Dockers coach Ross Lyon approached Collingwood about becoming its next senior coach.
The Dockers released a statement on Sunday afternoon to shut down "spurious claims" made by 1985 Brownlow medallist Brad Hardie on Perth radio station 6PR.
Lyon expressed his "disgust" at suggestions he had contacted the Magpies about succeeding coach Nathan Buckley, and pledged his loyalty to the Dockers.
"I am bitterly disappointed that such so-called journalism even sees the light of day," Lyon said in a statement.
"I have contacted Brad Hardie directly and voiced my disgust at his comments.
"They are totally without foundation and not based on fact in any way, shape or form.
"Such an erroneous and reckless claim should be exposed for what it is – a complete fabrication and a falsehood."
Lyon added he was fully dedicated to serving the Dockers, where he is contracted until the end of 2020.
"It is also important for our members and supporters to know that I couldn't be more be committed to what we are trying to achieve as a club at the Fremantle Dockers," the coach said.
"I can assure our members and supporters that I am totally focused on returning the club to sustained finals success."
Dockers chief executive Steve Rosich also voiced his anger, slamming the claim.
"Our club has a policy of not responding to rumour and innuendo, however in this case, because the report is utterly false and personal in nature, we felt compelled as a club to issue today's statement," Rosich said.
"(Lyon's) sole focus is on returning the team to a pathway of sustained finals success.
"Ross's application and dedication to what we are trying to achieve as a club has not wavered and cannot be questioned."
Lyon stunned the football world when he joined Fremantle at the end of 2011 after coaching St Kilda in three Grand Finals.