Dan Butler is free to play against his former side this weekend, with his one-match suspension overturned by the AFL Tribunal this afternoon.

Represented by club director Mr Jack Rush KC, the club argued that Butler’s rough conduct charge against Sydney’s Nick Blakey was an inappropriate and disproportionate response.

The Tribunal found Butler did not drive Blakey to the ground with his arms or legs, and further testified he made a “conscious decision” to release his opponent’s defensive arm towards the end of the tackling motion.

“We’re pleased to have Dan available to take on the Tigers this weekend,” Acting General Manager of Football David Misson said.

“Obviously we are cognisant of the need to protect the head, however as stated in our defence and proven by the Tribunal’s verdict, we believe Dan’s actions were a pure footballing act and weren’t untoward in any nature.

“We look forward to having Dan’s available for our upcoming match with Richmond on Saturday night.”

Butler thanked the AFL Tribunal for arriving at the final decision.

“I’d like to thank the Tribunal for taking the time to consider my case and am grateful to be able to play this weekend,” Butler said.