Brad Scott says Brent Harvey can play on next season

North Melbourne coach Brad Scott believes Brent Harvey can play on next season, but stands by the decision to cut the games record holder.

Speaking on Channel Seven on Monday night, Scott admitted the timing of the announcement surrounding the decision to axe four of the clubs veterans was wrong.

“We were very disappointed that it was messaged the way it was but in terms of the players themselves, ‘Boomer’ in particular, he doesn’t feel disrespected in any way, shape or form,” Scott said.

“If I had my time again, I still would’ve told him because I gave him that commitment that I’d tell him, but I probably would’ve said, ‘Mate, it’s not the time now to announce it … You know so you’ve got some clarity around the situation but for the club’s sake, we need to announce this post-season’.

“No doubt the messaging to the members didn’t go as we would’ve liked but in terms of the relationship with the players involved and the honesty and integrity that was shown, I have absolutely no issue with that.”

Scott also said Harvey could play on in 2017, however, maintains it was the right decision for the club to delist the 28-year-old.

“I think he’s playing well to play on. He’s said that a number of times and a number of people have said that,” Scott said.

“But the deciding factor was where the team was at and where North Melbourne needs to go.”