VICE-president Don McLardy says Melbourne is still in one of the strongest positions it’s been in for years, despite conceding that the club has had to deal with some “serious issues” this year.

McLardy addressed several of these issues at the club best and fairest last Friday night.

He said the constant speculation surrounding Tom Scully this year had been frustrating.

“Let’s face it - it was a major distraction for the club for most of the year,” he said.

“I know there are mixed emotions on Tom’s defection to GWS, but this has been a unique AFL story.

“While all of the clubs agreed to the rules, I hope the AFL has learned some lessons from what’s been a bit of a distasteful situation.”

He said the club had moved on from “a disappointing experience”, adding that it had become wiser in the process.

McLardy acknowledged former coach Dean Bailey for his service at the club.

“Dean is a man of character and integrity, and he dedicated a significant part of his life for our footy club,” he said.

“He remains respected by us all, and we wish him really well in anything he does in the AFL industry.”

McLardy also made special mention of former assistant coach Mark Williams.

“He’s been with us for eight years, and what a fine man he is,” he said.

“We’re really going to miss you, Mark.”

With Mark Neeld now entrenched as senior coach, McLardy said Todd Viney’s effort to step-up as interim coach was an important period for the club.

“A lot of us were really impressed with the way he attacked those five weeks,” he said.

“You’ll continue to be a really important part of our premiership drive in the next few years.”

McLardy added that former general manager of football Chris Connolly will continue to be a “great asset” in his new role as general manager of club development.

“This is an extremely important position for us, and Chris is eminently qualified for this role,” he said.

“As you all know, Chris is the ultimate clubman, and he was keen to take up our offer.”