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Thompson snubs AFL fine, future unclear

Mark Thompson, right, with James Hird. Pic: Getty Images

Dual Geelong premiership coach Mark Thompson may be banned from working in the AFL after failing to meet a deadline on a fine arising from his role in Essendon's supplements saga.

Thompson had until the close of business yesterday to pay a $30,000 sanction imposed on him by the league last year for his part in the messy affair which led to James Hird's 12-month suspension as Bombers coach.

Thompson deputised for Hird this year, guiding Essendon into an elimination final against North Melbourne.

He left Melbourne for an overseas holiday last month and it is understood he has not been in contact with key officials at the club for more than a fortnight about the prospect of a 2015 post.

Thompson is now likely to have to face the AFL Commission to determine what future he has in the game.

It is possible that his privileges, including life membership, could be stripped.

Meanwhile, Gold Coast have committed to redrafting Greg Broughton after de-listing the former Fremantle defender.

The AFL's first list lodgement deadline was yesterday, when several clubs announced fresh changes ahead of the de-listed free-agency period opening today.

As part of their establishment rules, the Suns had to cut their list from 40 to 38 for 2015.

Broughton was a surprise casualty, given the 28-year-old was a mainstay in defence since crossing from the Dockers at the end of 2012.

The Subiaco product averaged 17 disposals in 20 games this season and appears to have been squeezed out with the arrival of high-profile free-agency recruit and 2012 Sydney premiership player Nick Malceski.

The 189cm defender could seek opportunities elsewhere, but is understood to have committed to nominating for the pre-season draft and accepting a rookie spot to stay with the rising Suns.

Gold Coast list manager Scott Clayton told the AFL website they were confident of retaining Broughton.

"He'd rather stay on the Gold Coast and play with us, but he has to go through this process," Clayton said.

Fellow West Australian Liam Anthony led a raft of axings at North Melbourne. Tom Curran, Cameron Delaney, Taylor Hine, Robin Nahas and Mitch Wilkins were also shown the door.