AFL PLAYERS' Association chief executive Matt Finnis says he is disappointed that the Brisbane Lions have sacked Brendan Fevola while he is in a rehabilitation facility.

Fevola's lucrative contract with the Lions was terminated on Sunday evening, despite the star forward's efforts to address his many personal issues.

"Given the position that Brendan has been in during recent weeks, I think it is unfortunate from a timing perspective," Finnis said on Monday.

"But I do understand that the Brisbane Lions, over the last several weeks, have certainly acted in a manner which is consistent with promoting Brendan's health and well-being.

"So while I question the timing, I understand from my conversations with the Lions that they believe that they've acted in accordance with medical advice.

"Brendan has in the past been a difficult and challenging employee for his AFL clubs and we have an empathy for Brisbane.

"But they've also taken the most serious action that can be taken in relation to a player's contract."

The AFLPA will continue to support Fevola as he attempts to recover from a range of problems including depression.

"It's our responsibility to deal with Brendan to make sure he can receive professional support from our association to help him with his next period, which could be a very difficult time without the ability to play football," Finnis said.

"I think it's always a concern for us when you've got a player dealing with depression or another mental illness.

"Our medical experts tell us that the structure and routine football offers can often be a means of support to help the player deal with his issues.

"We'd be very concerned if this decision was to undermine Brendan's ability to battle the issues he's dealing with."