Jeremy Finlayson has accepted a sanction from the AFL for using a homophobic slur during Friday night’s game against Essendon, which means the Port Adelaide forward will miss three matches and undertake an education program.

The 28-year-old used the offensive term towards an opponent in the clash against the Bombers – won easily by the Power – telling club staff during the third-quarter break and apologising to the Essendon player after the match.

The AFL said without Finlayson’s admission, apologies and contrition, the sanction would have included a longer suspension.

“Everyone, including Jeremy understands the word he used is both hurtful and totally unacceptable in any setting, ever,” the AFL’s general counsel, Stephen Meade, said.

“The AFL is very clear that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in society. We want all people in LGBTQI+ communities to feel safe playing or attending our games and we know the incident that happened on the weekend does not assist this goal.”

The term used by Finlayson was described by the AFL as an “unprompted and highly offensive homophobic slur … which demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality”.

Finlayson said the word he used “has no place in our society or our game”.

“Words can be very hurtful and what I said on Friday night was totally unacceptable” he said.

“I unreservedly apologise again to the Essendon player, my teammates, Port Adelaide members and supporters and the LGBTQIA+ community for the distress I have caused.

“I accept the AFL’s sanction and now look forward to reflecting on my behaviour and seeking education to improve myself and understand the impact such comments can have on the broader community.”

Finlayson will miss Port Adelaide’s next three games against fellow finals contenders Fremantle, Collingwood and St Kilda.

He is also required to attend appropriate Pride in Sport training, approved by the AFL, at his own expense.

AFL players receive annual education regarding vilification and the effects of such behaviour, and the league pledged to build on this training in future.