FREMANTLE coach Ross Lyon has taken aim at the media's "sensational headlines" in the wake of his confirmation that Michael Johnson and Danyle Pearce would not continue next year.
Lyon was in a prickly mood on Saturday night in the aftermath of the Dockers' 29-point defeat to Essendon at Etihad Stadium.
The long-time coach told reporters 10 days ago that "it is pretty obvious they are going to exit" in reference to 200-plus-game veterans Johnson and Pearce.
WAYWARD DONS DOWN DOCKERS Full match coverage and stats
Johnson, 33, was a late inclusion against the Bombers for his first match since round 10 when 20-year-old ruckman Sean Darcy's groin caused him issues in the warm-up.
But it was a journalist's questioning on another Fremantle player, Cameron Sutcliffe, who is out of contract at season's end, that drew Lyon to reflect on the media.
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"I'm not here to talk about people's futures. It's not really how we should operate," Lyon said.
"Clearly, there was a discussion on our veterans last week and that was fine – there were some sensational headlines out of it, but that's okay. That's a shot over the bows, what was written and said.
"I'm not prepared to discuss anyone's future in media conferences or with the media, because it's not my role. I'm just going to coach.
WATCH Ross Lyon's full post-match media conference
"We won't conduct that business here, because there are no wins for anyone in that one, I would have thought. Probably a win that side of the table (media)."
It was a fascinating response, given Lyon's history on this topic beyond what he said about Johnson and Pearce.
He infamously announced Robert Eddy, Steven Baker, Michael Gardiner and Andrew McQualter's retirements in 2011 while he was still coaching St Kilda – and shortly before he switched to the Dockers.
Eddy and Baker both took to Twitter to vehemently deny they were retiring, and Lyon's statement soured his relationship with them.
McQualter went on to play five games for Gold Coast the following season.
A question about whether Johnson, who kicked two goals and won 16 disposals, would keep his spot next week also didn't go down well with Lyon.
"That's a good question. I'll let you know after match committee next week," the coach answered sarcastically.
"I wouldn't have thought I'm here to conduct match committee and I think it's the same question asked differently.
"Without being too difficult, you really want me to discuss someone's future?
"I'm here to discuss the game and individual performances, but I think it's unrealistic that you think I have (decided) selection for next week. It would be disrespectful to everybody."
