The investigation came as Melbourne was again forced to deal with fallout from its handling during the pre-season of 2021 of allegations about the behaviour of senior coach Simon Goodwin.

According to a report in News Corp, the management style of Melbourne chief executive Gary Pert was discussed at a meeting in February of that year between AFL boss McLachlan, his chairman Richard Goyder, then Melbourne president Glen Bartlett and a fellow director.

The meeting took place as the Demons investigated bullying allegations against Goodwin, which have since been rejected by current president Kate Roffey.

At the meeting, McLachlan reportedly told the Demons he was happy to play a role in insisting that Pert “comes on board” in confronting Goodwin, or risk losing his job.

“I am happy to say to Gary, you either listen to Glen and do exactly what you are told or they are going to fire you. Happy to play that role,” McLachlan reportedly said.

The AFL on Thursday night refused to elaborate on the conversation, in which McLachlan reportedly use colourful language in encouraging the Melbourne president to be firm with Pert.

McLachlan reportedly agreed the Demons should confront Goodwin about his health and wellbeing and “a broader reputational issue,” and there was a discussion about whether Pert should be present for such a confrontation.

On behalf of McLachlan, an AFL spokesman released a statement to The Age on Thursday night.

“The AFL will not go into details of a private meeting with two Melbourne Football Club directors over 16 months ago other than to say the club came to the AFL with a problem and organised a meeting,” the statement said.

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“Under the leadership of Gary Pert, the club addressed a number of issues that were discussed (in that meeting) and took the steps necessary to set Melbourne up for success – and the club saw the benefit of that in September last year.

“I [McLachlan] have a long-term personal and professional relationship with Gary and my casual language reflects that.”

Bartlett declined to comment on Thursday night while Melbourne, Roffey and Pert could not be reached.

The Demons went on to win the 2021 premiership under Goodwin, and despite losing their past two matches remain on top of the ladder as they prepare to play Collingwood on Queen’s Birthday.