THE boss of the AFL Players’ Association Paul Marsh wouldn’t have a problem with elite footballers’ wages being made public similar to professional American sports leagues.

Most AFL footballers are against the idea to follow the lead of the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL to disclose player salaries due to the likelihood of increased public scrutiny.

But Marsh is out of step with his members, taking an alternative view.

“I would have no issue with that,” he told AFL Trade Radio.

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“The players themselves do have an issue with it.”

The AFLPA CEO acknowledged the players’ concerns over potential mental health ramifications but suggested the approach might prove beneficial to their hip pocket.

Tom Boyd has been open about his mental health issues after signing a hefty long-term contract at the Bulldogs. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

“What we’ve seen in sports around the world is if this happens - and this is a careful-what-you-wish-for situation - is that player wages will go up significantly,” Marsh said.

“Once everyone one knows what everyone is getting, the market for players (will increase).

“Players at the moment - they’ve got enough pressure on them. Mental health’s our biggest issue. That’ll be the flow on effect.”

March said it’s time for the AFL to consider the merits of the airing individual contracts publicly and the priorities of the players would largely dictate any future change.

“The industry probably needs to have a mature debate on that one,” he said.

“It’s an interesting one. If (the players) want more money, releasing this information will lead to that.”

— AAP