North Melbourne have stood Taylor Garner down from AFL duties while they continue to investigate his involvement in a bar fight at a Sydney nightspot.
Garner got into an altercation at a Double Bay venue during the Kangaroos' bye weekend in which it is claimed a man's nose was broken and he failed to notify the club of the incident.
The 25-year-old played in North's loss to GWS in Hobart leading into the bye, but won't be considered for selection for Saturday night's clash with Collingwood at Marvel Stadium.
"We simply will not tolerate anyone who compromises team standards and expectations," Roos football boss Cameron Joyce said via a club statement.
"Taylor knows he made some poor choices on the weekend and we will continue to work with him to ensure he bounces back a better person.
"At this stage, he will play in the VFL this weekend.
"After speaking with Taylor (on Tuesday), he unreservedly apologised and has fully accepted the club's initial stance."
The matter is also being investigated by NSW Police, with the Roos promising to add further sanctions if necessary when both probes are complete.
Garner was the 15th overall selection at the 2012 draft but has struggled with injuries and form, managing just 38 senior appearances.
"I'm really disappointed, it's not where we want to be," interim coach Rhyce Shaw told reporters before the club released a statement about Garner's indiscretion on Wednesday.
"We've spoken about our standards and obviously he's put himself in a position where he hasn't upheld those standards."
Australian Associated Press
