James Hird has given a fresh update on Essendon that left the football world saddened. The information revealed struck a somber chord across the AFL community.

The former Bombers coach opened up about a private matter. The personal news drew compassion from AFL fans.

The update comes after a leak controversy. Columnist Caroline Wilson criticised Hird and Eddie McGuire over what she called a conspiracy in her view.

Hird discussed a meeting as well that might resolve the coaching saga at the club. The meeting was mentioned without additional information in the reports.

The personal update and the meeting news are generating plenty of conversation.