Chris Fagan has taken a “leave of absence” as Brisbane coach after explosive allegations about his conduct while at Hawthorn emerged, while North Melbourne has delayed the start of Alastair Clarkson’s five-year tenure at the club, due to begin on November 1.

“Alastair was due to commence work with North Melbourne on November 1 however he will delay the start of his tenure to allow time to fully participate in the investigation,” a club statement said.

6PR Football broadcaster Brad Hardie earlier told Liam Bartlett on 6PR Mornings that he expected Fagan, one of Clarkson’s assistants at the Hawks, to speak publicly “by the end of the day”.

But the Lions released a statement on Wednesday confirming the news that Fagan would step aside to assist the AFL’s external, independent investigation.

The Brisbane Lions are aware Senior Coach Chris Fagan will work with the AFL on an investigation into allegations concerning historical events at the Hawthorn Football Club, where he was a former employee.

Chris supports and welcomes the investigation.

He was not consulted during the Hawthorn sponsored review and looks forward to the opportunity to be heard as part of the AFL investigation.

The Brisbane Lions and Chris have mutually agreed that he will take a leave of absence from the Club so he can fully cooperate in the investigation.

As the matters are now with the AFL Integrity Unit, the Brisbane Lions won’t make any further comment at this stage.