Brisbane Lions captain Harris Andrews impressed by Lachie Neale’s ability to focus during marriage drama

Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale is being backed to have one of his biggest and best seasons yet in the wake of his explosive marriage breakdown. Neale’s off-field life descended into public turmoil during the summer following the high-profile break up of his marriage. His estranged wife Jules has moved back to Perth with their two children, while Neale stepped down from his role as Brisbane captain. In December, Jules released a statement that said she had been “betrayed in the most unimaginable way”. That comment is believed to be in relation to an alleged affair between Neale and her close friend Tess Crosley. Neale has not confirmed infidelity but did issue a public apology, saying: “I have let my family down and I apologise for my actions that have let down those that are closest to me.” The former Fremantle player — who has won two Brownlow Medals — appears set to return to his best this year after an eye-catching performance in a pre-season practice match on Thursday night. Brisbane co-captain Harris Andrews — who held the role alongside Neale but has this season been joined by Hugh McCluggage and Josh Dunkley — marvelled at the midfielder’s ability to compartmentalise his football life from his personal life. In an interview with The West Australian, Andrews said Neale had been fully-focused on footy while at the club and done everything possible to have an impact this season. “I can only go off what I’ve seen within the four walls of the club and at training. He has been super diligent with his training. He’s locked in,” he said. “He’s been really impressive with how he’s attacked this summer. Stepping back from his official leadership role might be a good thing. it’s allowed him to focus on what he’s got going on off the field. “It allows him a little bit more freedom and there’s less pressure on him. It’s been great to see the way he’s come into the club each and every day. He’s super keen to get on with it and play some good footy for our team.” The 32-year-old quashed any fears his off-field issues would impact his performance by racking up a game-high 31 disposals for the Lions against Gold Coast on Thursday. Meanwhile Jules, who had a surge in popularity on social media in recent weeks, took to Instagram to share pictures of her new life in Perth. The former hairdresser, who first began dating Neale while he was playing with the Dockers, shared pictures of her walking Perth streets and visiting cafes in a plug for activewear brand Lorna Jane, as well as attending influencer events. She also celebrated her 36th birthday with friends in Cottesloe last weekend. Neale has battled several injuries in recent years while leading the Lions to consecutive premierships. He carried a foot injury into the 2024 grand final and tore his plantar fascia during that match, despite producing a near best on ground performance. Then he overcame a calf injury to play in last season’s grand final despite initial expectations that he would be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Neale played as the sub in the grand final and was brilliant after coming on in the second half. Andrews said Neale had relished the chance to have a full pre-season without injury concerns. “His body has been really good. he worked so hard to get back for the grand final so he went into the off-season for the first time in a few years feeling good,” he said. “He was able to bank a bit of work over the break and he’s come back to pre-season and match sim in good shape. It’s been a good summer for him” The Lions begin their season in the AFL’s Opening Round against Western Bulldogs on March 7 Neale’s first scheduled match back in Perth is not until July 13. He flew in to Perth for a quick trip last month. The veteran is out of contract after this season and Brisbane coach Chris Fagan has given Neale a public blessing to move to a WA-based club if it suited his family situation at the end of the year. Asked about the prospect of bringing the star back to the Dockers, coach Justin Longmuir said “It’s something we’ll have to look at throughout the year”. “I wouldn’t say I wouldn’t entertain it, but I don’t really see it as my job, particularly this time of the year,” he told Nine. “He’s a contracted player at another club and I haven’t really put any time into thinking about 2027, let alone player personnel in 2027 from other clubs.”