(Coach, teammate, close friend, sibling) says (insert players name) is a ‘ripper bloke’ despite (punching someone, urinating in public, using social media inappropriately, trafficking drugs).

“Sure, he’s done something here that’s reprehensible but he’s just a loveable larrikin when you get to know him,” said (coach, teammate, close friend, sibling).

“What people don’t see is that when he’s not (belting people, abusing teammates, hanging out with gangland figures, sexually assaulting someone.), he’s great fun to get drunk with.”

(Prominent media identity) said (insert players name) was a ‘great guy.’

“I’m not saying that just because he’s got a lot of dirt on me and I played footy with his dad.”

“Although that’s mainly why I’m saying this.”

(Former club champion) said it’s important to remember that everyone associated with the AFL is a ‘great bloke.’

“There’s future jobs and premierships on the line here, so remember everyone is a cracker of a bloke and if they’ve done several terrible things then they’re ‘misunderstood.’”

“Although, if someone turns out to be a pretty average player, they may not get the full amnesty the ‘ripper bloke’ tag applies.”