Melbourne settled out of court with former chairman Glen Bartlett saying drug use allegations against coach Simon Goodwin had no basis.

The announcement represents two major steps forward for the embattled AFL club as it seeks to end more than 12 months of turbulence on and off the field.

Demons, Bartlett and partner Victoria Laspas issued a joint statement late Thursday night after several weeks of mediation.

The AFL will also make a statement about Bartlett on Friday.

Bartlett served as chairman from 2013 until he left the club in April 2021.

The following year he took legal action against members of the club’s board of directors following comments regarding the end of his presidency.

Regarding the secret agreement, the statement said: “The parties are aware that the dispute over the last three years has been a difficult and stressful time for everyone and recognize that the matter could have been handled differently.” It was said.

“All parties are sorry for the damage caused.

“The board recognizes and thanks Glen for the important role he has played as chairman… Glen is proud of the improvements he has brought to the club as chairman.”

The statement addressed “serious allegations” about social drug use that were investigated while Goodwin and Bartlett were presidents.

The statement said, “It was determined that the allegations were unfounded and not based on facts.”

“This puts these matters to rest for all time. Simon Goodwin is a highly respected and respected first-year Demons coach.”

The allegations became public after Goodwin coached the Devils to carry the drought-breaking 2021 banner.

The Demons have missed out on a top eight finish this season after consecutive exits in the 2022 and 2023 finals series.

Speculation continues about the future of star player at the club, Clayton Oliver.

The future of midfielder Christian Petracca was also uncertain before he started again this year following a season-ending injury.

Another key player, Angus Brayshaw, retired early before the start of the season due to concussion problems.

Since the end of Melbourne’s season, Bartlett’s successor Kate Roffey and CEO Gary Pert have resigned.

AAP