Collingwood player Sharrod Wellingham has been suspended from AFL selection for the first two rounds of the premiership season for missing a rehabilitation session, and also drinking alcohol while injured.
 
This decision was taken by the leadership of the club, which includes the player leadership group.
 
“This hopefully sends a message to Sharrod that his decision making, which led to this situation, is entirely inconsistent with the preparation standards expected of a Collingwood footballer”, said Collingwood director of football Geoff Walsh.
 
Wellingham has been recovering from knee soreness, and will be available to play at VFL level during this time.

The 23-year-old has played 72 games for the club since his debut on Anzac Day 2008 against Essendon.

He was drafted to the club from WAFL club Perth and was a key member of the 2010 premiership team with 20 disposals and two goals in the Grand Final replay.

Wellingham played 20 games in 2011, averaging 18.5 disposals with a career high of 37 against Melbourne in round 12.