The young Hawk has struggled adapting to the demands of elite football since being selected by the reigning premiers with pick number 38 in the 2013 NAB AFL draft.

Garlett approached the club three weeks ago to address his concerns and he was subsequently removed from match availability, although he continues to train with the Hawks.

Asked about the 20-year-old at Melbourne Airport ahead of Hawthorn's season-opener against the Brisbane Lions in Launceston, coach Alastair Clarkson said Garlett still wants to play football.

"He's still progressing. He's got some issues going on that he just needs to address," Clarkson said.

"He's still around our club, and he had to go back to Perth this week to do some stuff back there, but he'll be back in the fold next week."

The talented left-footer was overlooked in the 2012 NAB AFL draft, despite earning an under-18s All Australian jumper that year.

Garlett kept his name at the front of recruiters' minds by booting 45 goals for Swan Districts in the WAFL last season.