THE FORM of Western Bulldogs recruit Stewart Crameri has suffered as a result of the on-going investigation into the Essendon supplements scandal, according to his coach Brendan McCartney.
Crameri was traded to the Bulldogs at the end of season 2013 after four years with the Bombers.
Earlier this month ASADA issued 34 show-cause notices to past and present Essendon players in relation to the club's 2012 supplements program.
The 25-year-old forward was inserted into a Bulldogs' forward-line desperate for a consistent goal kicker, and he started well, booting 18 goals in the first eight rounds of the season.
But in the past month his output has dropped off significantly, with Crameri managing just three goals in his last five games.
McCartney wants more from the former Bomber, and admitted Crameri's off-field concerns were having an impact on his form.
"I think Stewart has had a bit on his mind - he won't mind me saying that," McCartney said.
"He's dealt with it really well and has been provided with great support internally. When his mind clears, and we feel like he's got to that stage now, he'll be okay.
"He's drawing good opponents. He did a lot of good work against Collingwood that went unrewarded."
The Bulldogs will continue to support Crameri while the Essendon-ASADA case plays out in court.
McCartney said he was confident the "resilient but laid-back country boy" would return to his early season form in the near future.
"We are all human beings, so are players, and our role is to support them physically… and at the same time support them as people," McCartney said.
"We feel we've done that. He's a really popular man at our club. He's got a lot of respect among the playing group and there's a lot of good footy left in Stewie - I wouldn't be surpised if we see that this week."
The Bulldogs face Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Last time the two sides met in round eight, Crameri kicked four goals to prove the match-winner.