Tom Mitchell's management apologise for Brownlow interview payment requests

Management for Brownlow Medal favourite Tom Mitchell have apologised after it was revealed one of his representatives had asked for money for interviews if in the event Mitchell wins the coveted award.

Craig Kelly, the head of TLA, said Mitchell wasn’t aware of the requests for payment and apologised for the embarrassment it may have caused his client.

"If any of our managed players are lucky enough to win the Brownlow Medal, as per previous years, they will be available for the prescribed AFL media requirements," Kelly said.

"Further to this, our players have always been available to media the following morning and this year will be no different.

"We apologise for the miscommunication around fees for these interviews, and also to Tom Mitchell for any embarrassment caused this morning."

Kelly released a statement after AFL chief Gillon McLachlan shot down reports during an interview with radio station 3AW.

"I don’t know who the manager is but they’ve made a mistake and that won’t happen," McLachlan said.

Mitchell is set to undergo shoulder surgery next week following AFL's night of nights.

He was crunched in the first quarter of last Friday's semi-final by Melbourne defender Neville Jetta.

Mitchell has revealed he would have been an unlikely starter in Saturday's preliminary final, had the Hawks defeated the Demons.

"I don't think I would have got up to play. Which would have been disappointing," Mitchell told the Nine Network.

"Looks like it (will require surgery).

"Maybe Wednesday I might try to get it looked at, fixed up.

"I should be stronger and better for next year."

Mitchell is one of the favourites for the award along with Patrick Cripps, Max Gawn, Martin and Steele Sidebottom.