‘Mick’s Message’ is normally sent exclusively to Collingwood members each week, but Mick Malthouse expressed his desire for this week’s message to be published on Collingwoodfc.com.au, in conjunction with his email, for the benefit of all Collingwood members and supporters.

Dear members and supporters,

Following my apology for inappropriate comments I made to Stephen Milne, I would like to take this opportunity to inform you of the reasoning behind the initial position I took in the post-match press conference on Friday night.

When asked if I was directing comments at St Kilda players or my own players, I chose the latter option basically under the old code of what happens on the field stays on the field.

I largely took this decision based on my belief that, if I had said I was directing comments at a St Kilda player(s), this would lead to follow up questions such as “who were you talking to?”, “what did you say?”, “were you responding to provocation?”, etc etc. This would in turn create unnecessary angst and controversy for both clubs, and individuals from both clubs.

However, having seen that St Kilda and their players were obviously aggrieved the next day, and with St Kilda wanting to take the matter further, and having reflected on my involvement in the verbal exchange, I felt it was necessary for me to acknowledge the inappropriate nature of my comments, and to offer the subsequent apology.

I strenuously object to being branded a liar. I acknowledge my original position has caused me much embarrassment and my family great distress, but the reason I reacted to the question the way I did was because at that moment, I felt it was the best outcome not to drag the two clubs and a number of individuals into an obvious controversy.

I’ve been involved in the game for over four decades and have always had the best interests of the game at heart, and will continue to do so.

I hope this explanation, in conjunction with my record and reputation, gives you, the Collingwood supporter, a greater understanding of this situation.

In terms of the game against St Kilda, they are a really good football side, and while there were pleasing elements to come out of the game, we obviously made it very difficult for ourselves through really poor kicking for goal. Against a good side you can’t afford to do this. We are absolutely intent on rectifying this, and my focus, along with that of the team is solely now on preparing for Hawthorn.

Michael Malthouse