THE BRISBANE Lions have given young forward Josh Schache "a few days" leave amid his second-season struggles.

The out of contract 19-year-old was dropped to the NEAFL at the weekend where he had just four disposals.

Schache has returned to his home in Victoria.

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Lions football manager David Noble told AFL.com.au the club was managing the workload of the former No.2 draft pick, just as it did with top 2016 draftee Hugh McCluggage two weeks ago.

Noble said the decision to grant Schache some time off had nothing to do with reports the young forward had been given time off to decide on his future amid interest from Victorian clubs including Richmond. 

"I can categorically deny it, that's bulls**t," Noble said.

"There's been no deadline given. We're talking to Josh's manager every few days but there is no timeframe whatsoever."

Schache's manager, Dave Trotter of McDonald Sports, echoed Noble's comments, telling News Corp his client's trip home had nothing to do with his contract impasse.

"It is more that they are giving him a rest because everyone watching him play (can see) he looks a bit fatigued. They did it with McCluggage and they will do it with a few of their other youngsters," Trotter said. 

"They said, 'Is this something that will help him?' His mum and brother were up on the weekend and they said, 'Why don't you just go home with them?'

"It is not related to his contract."

The Lions will speak with Schache on Thursday to monitor his recovery and decide then whether he will return to Brisbane immediately to play at the weekend, or stay in Victoria a few extra days. 

The 19-year-old had kicked six goals in his six games this season before being relegated to the NEAFL. 

He is the target of a number of Melbourne clubs, led by the Tigers, who have confirmed meeting Schache's manager.