Lachie Neale Posts Heartbreak Video After Split with Wife Jules
Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale has posted a telling video referencing heartbreak on Instagram, in the aftermath of his headline-grabbing split with wife Jules. The couple separated in November after Jules publicly accused Neale of betrayal, and she has since moved back to Perth with their two young children, Piper, four, and Freddie, one.
Revealing Peaky Blinders Clip Shared
On Wednesday, Neale included a revealing clip from the hit TV show Peaky Blinders in an Instagram post. The clip features lead character Tommy Shelby asking his love interest Grace Burgess to sing a song for him. When she asks if he wants a happy or sad tune, he replies 'sad'. Grace warns, 'OK. But I warn you, I'll break your heart,' to which Tommy responds, 'Already broken.' Neale captioned the post simply 'Tommy x'.
Neale Admits Fault in Separation
On January 2, Neale addressed the split publicly, admitting it was a result of his actions. This came amid rumours of an affair with Jules' former friend Tess Crosley, though Neale did not provide specifics. Speaking to reporters, he confirmed the separation and announced he was stepping down as captain of the Lions.
'I understand the interest in my personal life, but these are personal matters and I won't be answering any questions on that topic today,' Neale said. 'I can confirm, though with regret, that Jules and I have now separated. While I won't go into specifics I can say that I have let my family down and I apologise for my actions that have let down those that are closest to me. For that I am deeply sorry.'
Speculation Over Neale's AFL Future
With Jules and the children now in Perth, there has been speculation that Neale could return to Western Australia to play for the Dockers or Eagles once his contract with Brisbane expires, in order to be closer to his family. His deal with the Lions is up at the end of the season, but footy journalist Cal Twomey has reported that Adelaide and St Kilda are also in the hunt for Neale's services.
'Brisbane have given their blessing for him to look around given his family situation,' Twomey said on the Gettable Podcast. 'Everyone is looking at Fremantle and West Coast as options – they're obvious ... but does he want to finish his career at a club building or a club continuing to challenge for premierships? I think other clubs will try to get involved in this conversation if it drags out too. So, I'm not just looking at WA, I'm looking at Adelaide, I'm looking at St Kilda... as well.'
The emotional post and ongoing family dynamics highlight the personal challenges Neale faces as he navigates his professional future in the AFL.
