Jack Steven to take leave from footy with mental health issue

St Kilda star Jack Steven will take leave from the club to deal with a mental health issue.

Saints GM Simon Simon Lethlean said the club had the full support of Steven through this difficult time.

“Jack’s decision to put his hand up and acknowledge that he needs some time away is a brave one,” Lethlean told the club website.

"He is a much-loved member of our playing group and has the support of all his teammates, his coaches and all St Kilda supporters.”

Lethlean was not willing to put a time frame on when the 176-gamer would return.

“Jack will use this time to take a break from the daily routine of training and concentrate on his health,” he said.

“I know he is desperate to get back to training and preparing for the season as quickly as possible, but the most important thing is making sure he is in the right headspace to do so.

“We ask that Jack be given the time and privacy to deal with this matter.”