West Coast midfielder Jack Graham has been slapped with a four-match AFL ban for using a “highly offensive homophobic slur” towards a GWS Giants opponent last week.

In a statement, the AFL said Graham was found guilty of conduct unbecoming in an incident which occurred during the second quarter of the Eagles’ Round 17 loss to the Giants.

“The incident was self-reported by Graham to the West Coast Eagles,” the statement reads.

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“The club reported it to the AFL on Friday morning with the AFL integrity unit undertaking an immediate investigation.

“Graham used a highly offensive homophobic slur against a GWS Giants opponent, which demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality.

“Graham has received a four-match sanction, with the AFL taking into account Graham’s self-reporting of the incident, along with his private apology and contrition. Graham also rang the AFL CEO directly to apologise.

“He will not be eligible to play for the West Coast Eagles or any level of football for the next four weeks. As a part of the sanction Graham will also undertake pride in sport education.”

The AFL’s head of integrity and security Tony Keane said the ban sends a clear message.

“Everyone understands the word he used is both hurtful and totally unacceptable in any setting, ever,” he said.

“The AFL is very clear that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in the community. We have come a long way as a code, but this incident demonstrates there is so much more to be done, and we will continue to work together to improve our game as a safe and inclusive environment for all.

“The AFL will continue to consider the specific circumstances in each incident in determining appropriate responses. Graham’s sanction would have been higher if he hadn’t self-reported and understood his comment was totally inappropriate.”

All AFL and AFLW players receive yearly education around vilification.

In a statement of his own on the club’s website, Graham took full responsibility for the mistake.

“I am very remorseful for the word I used and know such language has no place in our community or our game,” Graham said.

“I have offered my unreserved apology to the Giants player and Greater Western Sydney and would also like to publicly apologise for my comment.

“What I said does not reflect my values or our Club values. I made a mistake and need to be better and will prove that through my actions going forward.”

Eagles CEO Don Pyke said while the club is disappointed with Graham, it will wrap its arms around him now.

“The word Jack used is completely unacceptable and does not align with societal and club values,” Pyke said.

“Jack understands the harmful effects comments like these can have on others and he has been honest in addressing this matter.

“Player welfare was front of mind throughout the process and we were in regular contact with the Giants following the match and earlier this week around this situation.

“With no match day report being lodged, both clubs agreed the appropriate course of action was to refer the matter to the AFL.

“Jack personally called AFL CEO Andrew Dillon to apologise and has taken full responsibility and accepted the sanction that has been handed down.

“In addition, our playing groups will continue education around their role in respect and responsibility in the game.”

Graham will be withdrawn from the team to play Port Adelaide on Sunday.