Kerry GAA boss calls out AFL clubs over ‘sneaky’ gift to players

He is not happy!

There are currently 14 Irish players contracted to AFL clubs, with these including some of the most talented Gaelic footballers produced in recent times, such as Mark O'Connor, Ben Murphy and Kobe McDonald.

Speaking on the issue, Burns said: "The interest that the AFL has in our Gaelic players is something that we are keeping a very close eye on.

"We are in talks with the AFL about putting some sort of a protocol in place, possibly such as changing the category of player that goes from category B Rookie to category A and that might self-regulate it in time.

"But certainly we are meeting representatives of the AFL before the end of the month and this issue is going to be top of the agenda with us in the GAA."

Also speaking on the issue was Kerry county board chairman, Patrick O'Sullivan, who called out the AFL for the 'unacceptable' practice of sending gift packages to young footballers.

He said: "The GAA cannot continue to pretend there is nothing wrong here. Action has to be taken.

"There is a lack of regulation and we need the AFL to acknowledge the work that has been invested in these young players through compensation or equipment or otherwise. We need regulation of this practice and I'm calling on the GAA to deal with this as a matter of urgency.

"I am aware of some young players receiving gift packs from some AFL clubs with an Aussie Rules ball and they are being asked to practice with it. This is not acceptable to us and rules have to be put in place as this is leading to unnecessary stress to clubs and members."