The Essendon coaching saga continues, with former player and now potential coach James Hird speaking out. Hird, a triple premiership winner with the club, is determined to return to the coaching chair, despite the recent speculation and hesitancy from potential candidates. The club's president, Andrew Welsh, is under fire for his reported preference for interim coach Dean Solomon, which has caused alarm among fans and former players alike.
Hird, a former teammate of Welsh's, is adamant that the club will run a thorough and legitimate process to find the best candidate. He believes that the fans want a comprehensive search, and the club deserves nothing less. This stance is in stark contrast to the recent reports suggesting Solomon as the preferred choice, which has left some, like former Bomber Tim Watson, horrified.
Watson, a triple premiership winner himself, suggested that Welsh should not be involved in the selection process and that a separate committee should be established to ensure a fair and proper process. He emphasized the importance of finding the best candidate and not rushing the decision.
Hird, however, remains confident that the club will follow a proper process. He believes that the club is going through the criteria and considering all options, including experienced coaches like himself and Solomon, as well as new candidates. This optimism is shared by some fans, who want to see a thorough search to find the right coach for the club's future.
The situation is further complicated by the recent photo of Hird with ex-club president Paul Little and legendary coach Kevin Sheedy. Some have suggested that there might be more to this gathering than meets the eye, given Sheedy's previous push for Hird's return and Little's reported behind-the-scenes efforts. Hird, however, dismisses the idea of any plotting, emphasizing that they were there to respect a great man.
The coaching search continues, with the club's future in the balance. The fans are waiting to see if the club will indeed run a proper process or if the pressure will lead to a rushed decision. The outcome will shape the club's future and the legacy of the coaches involved.
