Greg Williams' comments about this Sunday's clash between arch rivals Carlton and Essendon has opened up old wounds between the dual Brownlow medallist and 1987 Norm Smith medallist David Rhys-Jones.
Williams, who is working under Bombers coach John Worsfold as a specialist skills coach this season, said: "It'll be a big game, I'm sure there will be a huge crowd and 'our boys' the Bombers … it's hard to say I'm a Bomber but I really am committed here, and I really hope the Bombers kick their arse."
When informed about Williams' comments, Rhys-Jones could barely contain his anger, labelling the dual Brownlow medallist a mercenary.
"That's almost laughable, it's almost treason," Rhys-Jones said. "I hope all of the Carlton supporters read it as it shows what he is.
"It's very disappointing for a former Carlton player to talk like that, but not surprising ..."