Carlton has confirmed Elijah Hollands will be sidelined for Saturday night's clash with Fremantle as the club continues investigations into the damning scenes against Collingwood.
Blues chief executive Graham Wright has spoken for the first time on the issue at club headquarters, reiterating Hollands suffered a mental health episode and would not be travelling to Perth.
Wright also conceded the club knew Hollands, who appeared disoriented, was struggling during the game.
The Blues boss said Carlton was focused on providing Hollands with the medical and well-being support he needs.
"Our staff have been working along Elijah on this journey on and off the field for a long period of time now," Wright said.
"Thursday night presented unprecedented and complex circumstances. We're taking this very seriously. This has raised valid questions we are determined to understand.
"We will work closely with Elijah on what are the next steps for him.
"He's OK. He's getting great support. He's with his dad and family."
Asked if he could rule out illicit drugs and alcohol being involved, Wright answered: "I've heard that conjecture ... at this stage, we don't suspect that is. We're dealing with a mental health issue."
"We're in the process of going through all the processes leading up to the game ... two or three weeks leading up to the game," Wright said.
"We were aware that he was struggling in the game."
Wright spoke of past cases of anxiety and panic attacks involving Hollands.
He said the club was asking itself questions about whether it could have done better.
Collingwood's Beau McCreery has also spoken about the scenes at the MCG and was alarmed by vision.
"It was obviously very worrying to see someone running around like that," McCreery told the Sunday Footy Show.
Wright said he had not spoken to Collingwood amid claims Hollands may have been drinking.
Wright said the club remained in close contact with the AFL and AFL Players' Association.
The AFL has put the heat on the Blues for answers on Holland, who appeared disorientated in the clash with Collingwood, but still played 60 per cent of game time.
The AFL statement was released late on Saturday, reading:
"The health and wellbeing of every player is the AFL's highest priority.
"The AFL has today requested Carlton to, once concluded, provide the outcome of its review of the circumstances relating to Elijah Holland's fitness to play in Thursday night's match.
"The AFL will continue to make inquiries with the club in relation to the matter."
