CARLTON property steward Wayne Gilbert has been suspended by the club following an investigation into his behaviour at Etihad Stadium last Friday night.

A complaint regarding Gilbert was lodged after the Blues’ loss to North Melbourne in round 12.

It alleged he had verbally abused and spat chewing gum at the umpires.
 
Carlton was asked to explain the incident before Blues officials met with the AFL on Thursday.

“As a result of his actions following the game on Friday night, we have suspended Wayne from his match day duties for the next four matches,” Carlton’s football operations manager Steven Icke said.

“This is a significant penalty for Wayne who has been the Carlton property steward for 27 years and has not missed a Carlton game during that period.
 
“We are certainly aware of the AFL rules in relation to officials approaching the umpires during or after a match.

“However, it is not just about the official rules of the competition, it is also about respect for umpires and the important role everyone at AFL-level plays in setting the right example.
 
Gilbert apologised for the incident, admitting “it was inappropriate and set a poor example.”

He added: “I understand we all have an important role to play in showing umpires and match day officials the respect they deserve and importantly ensuring we set an example that helps to encourage umpires at all levels.”