Lovett-Murray, who is one of Essendon’s most respected players and a leader among its indigenous contingent, has been charged with possession of a drug of dependency, after a police search yesterday found a single tablet of ecstasy at his home.

The charging of Lovett-Murray, who maintains his innocence, is believed to be connected with another police investigation in which his brother, Dane Lovett-Murray, and a cousin, Robert Knight, were charged with drug-related offences following a search at another premise on Friday.

Lovett-Murray has told police that he is willing to submit to blood or urine tests in a bid to clear his name. He has been released from police custody and a court date has been set for October.

His manager Peter Jess told the Age today: "He is happy to submit to any drug test - blood, urine or anything."

Jess said his client was very much surprised by the charges. Jess said Lovett-Murray did not drink or take drugs.

"He doesn’t drink, smoke and is very much against drugs."

Lovett-Murray is strongly involved in supporting indigenous causes and is regarded as a role model at the club.

Essendon, which is expected to hold a media conference this afternoon, club is standing behind the player, believing he is entitled to a presumption on innocence.