“The leadership group has recommended to impose a one-match ban on Steven, a decision which has been endorsed by the club’s broader leadership. This will make him unavailable for both AFL and VFL selection.

“Steven and Jake will also complete community service through one of the club’s community partners to ensure they understand the responsibility and impact they have as role models within the community.

“Over the past three years, Steven has developed into one of our most important on-field leaders, and while the impact of not having him available for selection is significant, what is more significant to us is our culture and the commitment we have to live by our values.

“Steven is extremely remorseful and accepts his actions were completely out of step with the expectations the club and his teammates have of him. He accepts the sanction handed down and makes no excuse for his poor judgment.”

May’s absence is significant, as the Demons have lost their past two matches after he went down early in round 11 with concussion. He then missed the match against Sydney.

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May has previously been disciplined by the Demons for drinking while injured, and had issues with his fitness when he arrived at Melbourne after the 2018 season. Teammate Michael Hibberd said last year that tough discussions between coach Simon Goodwin and May had “turned around” the defender’s career.

He is now regarded as one of the competition’s best backmen and a solid teammate in 59 matches with the Demons. Melksham missed out on playing in the club’s premiership but has been a popular figure in the playing group for his contribution in rebuilding the club.

The restaurant declined to comment when contacted by The Age.

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