Essendon youngster suspended for breaching AFL’s COVID-19 rules

Essendon youngster Brandon Zerk-Thatcher will be unavailable for selection this week after breaking the AFL’s strict COVID-19 protocols.

The Bombers revealed on Thursday the young defender was in breach of the AFL’s living arrangements and came forward to the club to self-report.

He subsequently underwent two separate coronavirus tests that returned negative results.

He has been handed a one-game suspension.