AFL community engagement officer Jason Mifsud has taken the blame for spreading untrue rumours about Melbourne coach Mark Neeld’s treatment of indigenous players.

Mifsud, who is himself indigenous, publicly apologised unreservedly to Neeld on Tuesday and has been counselled by the AFL.

Neeld was furious over the rumour, in which he is alleged have spoke with non-indigenous players individually over the pre-season, but only addressed indigenous players as a group.