Following the decision by the AFL Anti-Doping Appeals Board to dismiss the ASADA appeal against Ahmed Saad’s 18-month suspension, St Kilda Head of Football Chris Pelchen has issued the following statement.

"St Kilda Football Club is pleased that Ahmed will have the opportunity to play football again in 2015,” Pelchen said.

“We are open-minded to the possibility of him returning to the Saints but like all players available in the draft, we will make the appropriate assessment later in the year. Until that time, we will continue to support his welfare, as permitted."