AFL players are pushing for independent medical advice to determine the fate of potentially concussed players at league games.

High-level talks at AFL headquarters this week, between the AFL and the AFL Players Association, are understood to have seen the players expressing some frustration over the handling of concussion and seeking tougher protocols during games.

AFL players are pushing for independent medical advice for concussions. Credit:Anthony Johnson

Acting players' boss Ian Prendergast told Fairfax Media he remained concerned that lower-end concussion cases were not being adequately handled. ''I still think it's important to get the player off in those circumstances to explore concussion,'' he said.

''By the end of the year, we really need to have tougher protocols in place and a more clear expectation of how we treat low-end concussion and whether it's appropriately assessed. If not, further damage could be done during the game if that player comes back on.''