Buddy Franklin returns to Hawthorn for the first time since bombshell $10MILLION switch to Sydney Swans ahead of game between his two former clubs... and you won't believe which team his kids barrack for

Buddy Franklin was in the building on Sunday as he watched his two former clubs do battle at the MCG. 

AFL great Franklin broke Hawthorn hearts in 2013 when he ditched the Melbourne club for the Sydney Swans, in a bombshell $10million move that was heavily criticised by the footy world.

Many fans and pundits expected the move to fail spectacularly, but Franklin completed his long-term contract and retired last year, having become only the fifth player to kick 1,000 goals at the top level.

On Saturday morning, Franklin popped into Hawthorn's Waverley training base with his wife Jesinta and their two children, Rocky and Tallulah.

And the family were in attendance at the MCG on Sunday for the game between the Hawks and the Swans, with Franklin given a warm reception by his adoring fans.

He posed for photos with fans draped in gold and brown, while his kids also wore Hawthorn jumpers - in a clear indication as to where their loyalties lie. 

Since retiring from footy, the 37-year-old has relocated to the Gold Coast with his family. 

The Suns had considered making a play for Franklin in an off-field role, but nothing of the sort has materialised. 

Swans coach John Longmire has refuted claims of a fallout between Franklin and the club, with the forward missing his own retirement announcement last year. 

'No, we hadn't had enough of Lance,' Longmire said.

'Lance has been one of the most popular players we've had at this football club, and certainly one of the best players I've ever coached.

'He was a super player for us and I had a great relationship with him which I will always treasure.

'He was 36 (when he retired). You know, strangely enough you get to the stage where you go and do other things.'

Sydney took home the spoils on Sunday night, thumping the Hawks 5.12 (42) - 18.10 (118).