North Melbourne midfielder Jy Simpkin has opened up on his attempted exit from the Kangaroos during this year's trade period, and has denied reports that his changing role under Alastair Clarkson was a factor in his desire to leave.
In a post uploaded to his Instagram, Simpkin highlighted his mental health battle over the past 24 months, which has been compounded by the loss of two loved ones, and how it has affected his enjoyment of playing the game.
Simpkin wrote that the prospect of a fresh start gave him hope he could find that love again, but remained committed to returning to North Melbourne for next season, although conceded he is unlikely to remain captain.
"Over the past 24 months footy has taken a toll on my mental health and in particular the last 12 months. Especially with losing 2 very important loved ones in my life this year," Simpkin wrote.
"I haven't really been enjoying my footy as much as I would have liked and game day was becoming very hard over the course of the year. I was very open with the club through out the season on how I was feeling about everything.
"I love this club and my teammates as much as anything and without going into too much detail, although I never wanted to leave, I thought that a change of environment may help spark my love for the game again, especially if it was best for both the club and myself.
"Everything happens for a reason and I'm exactly where I need to be.
"Never was it about my position and where I was playing, although we have had a lot of honest chats surrounding where I'm best suited to help this club.
"Whilst my leadership position may take a step back, I'm committed to continuing to give my all and help in every way possible to bring success as ultimately that's all I am after.
"Thanks to those who have supported me through this tough time."
Collingwood's attempt to poach the two-time club best-and-fairest winner was one of many blockbuster deals that fell through in the final hours of the 2025 trade period, with the Roos swiftly rejecting Collingwood's two offers.
The capitulation of the deal means that Collingwood has been unable to bolster their midfield depth this trade period, despite heavily pursuing the likes of Simpkin and Clayton Oliver, while Simpkin will now return to North Melbourne without the captain tag next to his name, as he conceded in the aforementioned post.
