THE Port Adelaide Football Club and forward Jeremy Finlayson accept the AFL findings and subsequent sanction of a three-game suspension for a homophobic slur during Friday’s night game against Essendon.

Finlayson reaffirmed his remorse and regret for the comment.

“The word I used has no place in our society or our game,” Finlayson said.

“Words can be very hurtful and what I said on Friday night was totally unacceptable.

“I unreservedly apologise again to the Essendon player, my teammates, Port Adelaide members and supporters and the LGBTQIA+ community for the distress I have caused.

“I accept the AFL’s sanction and now look forward to reflecting on my behavior and seeking education to improve myself and understand the impact such comments can have on the broader community.”

Port Adelaide chairman David Koch reiterated Finlayson’s apology.

“On behalf of the Port Adelaide Football Club, I extend an apology to the Essendon player, the Port Adelaide community of members and supporters and the LGBTQIA+ community,” Mr Koch said.

“What was said is totally unacceptable and comments of this nature do not align with what our club stands for. Port Adelaide is a place for everyone so we are very disappointed with what occurred on Friday night.

“Importantly, Jeremy self-reported and apologised to the player on the night and has publicly expressed his remorse.

“We will now provide education for Jeremy and offer him and his family support during this time.

“We do not underestimate the seriousness of this matter and look forward to the AFL applying consistency to such cases in the future.”

Finlayson will miss Port Adelaide’s next three games against Fremantle (Adelaide Oval), Collingwood (MCG) and St Kilda (Adelaide Oval).