Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson has been released from hospital as he continues his recovery after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barr syndrome.
Late on Sunday night after the Hawks' hard-fought seven-point win over Greater Western Sydney, the club announced the coach will press on with his recovery at home.
Hawthorn will give a more comprehensive update on Clarkson's health on Monday.
Clarkson was diagnosed with the rare syndrome after being hospitalised with back pain last week.
He handed over the reins to assistant coach Brendon Bolton who oversaw a tight victory over the Giants at the MCG on Sunday.
The Tasmanian caretaker coach said he relished the chance to sit in the hot seat, but declined to elaborate on Clarkson's health.
"I've spoken to Clarko more about his health and wellbeing because that's what I'm mainly considerate of," Bolton said.
"Last I spoke to him he was in reasonable spirits, he'll need to take it easy.
"I've just done the good friend thing, check up on how you are.
Bolton did reveal Clarkson had offered to give advice via phone.
"He said there's always a phone there you can call to get any advice, and I'll do that," he said.
"He's a quality person and a good friend."
If he watched the game from his rest bed, the famously ill-tempered Clarkson cannot have been pleased with his side's display.
A string of uncharacteristic errors from experienced Hawks took the Giants to within touching distance of a famous victory.
The Hawks eventually crawled over the line after trailing deep into the third quarter as the Giants threatened a startling upset.
Bolton laughed off the suggestion he might pick up the phone at quarter-time.
"You always get a bit edgy but that's natural isn't it," he said.
"We did dig deep under some trying conditions."
Hawthorn could be desperate to have Clarkson re-installed as senior coach.
Three-time Brownlow winner Ian Stewart, who also suffers the disease, said earlier in the week that Clarkson could be in for a long lay-off.
With his health understandably taking precedence, Clarkson's return could be months, rather than weeks away.
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