Tom Bugg admits he will have to work hard to win back respect following his six game ban for an ugly hit on Sydney’s Callum Mills.

Melbourne defender Bugg pleaded guilty to the charge of intentional conduct with high impact to the head at an AFL tribunal on Tuesday night before being slapped with the heavy suspension.

The 24-year-old knows he will be judged for the incident for the rest of his career, but is hoping to repair his damaged reputation while sidelined from playing.

“I'm standing here tonight very embarrassed with my actions. I accept full responsibility for my actions," he said after the tribunal hearing.

“I’ve got a lot of work to do to earn back the respect of my captain, my fellow players and my coaches.

"I'm looking forward to just working over the next six weeks and earning back respect from my club, my teammates and everyone in the wider community."

Bugg struck Mills behind the play during last week’s game at the MCG, knocking out the Swans midfielder.

He will now be ineligible for selection until round 22, with sixth-placed Melbourne currently battling to book a finals berth.