Unrestricted free agent Grant Birchall will join the Brisbane Lions in season 2020 after the trade paperwork was officially lodged on Thursday. 

A four-time premiership player in the brown and gold, injuries saw Birchall manage just eight games for the Hawks in the past three seasons. 

GM – Football Graham Wright said Birchall departed the Hawks with the club’s full support.

“We were always open with Birch and his management about the fact we would be unable to guarantee him a list spot until we got through the trade period and had a better idea of where our list sat,” said Wright.

“As an unrestricted free agent Birch exercised his right to explore the market and we respect that completely.

“The last couple of seasons have been incredibly frustrating for Birch on the injury front and we are pleased for him that the Lions are able to provide him the opportunity to continue his playing career. 

“Birch has been a fantastic servant of our footy club for 14 years and we wish him all the best in the next chapter with the Lions.”

Birchall finishes his career in the brown and gold in 15th position on the club’s all-time games list with 248 games.