New Essendon coach Mark McVeigh tipped to approach James Hird for Bombers AFL role
New Essendon coach Mark McVeigh has expressed interest in bringing club legend James Hird into his coaching staff. Despite Hird being passed over for the head coach position, the club leadership believes he can provide significant value to the team.
Why it matters
The potential reunion of a controversial club icon with the team highlights the internal pressures and fan expectations surrounding AFL leadership transitions.
James Hird could yet return to Essendon despite being snubbed by the Bombers for the head coach role. James Hird could yet return to Essendon despite being snubbed by the Bombers for the head coach role. AFL Essendon outline plan for James Hird after opting for Mark McVeigh as head coach Hird can bring ‘significant value’ to club, says Bombers president
McVeigh takes on head coach role after leaving Sydney Swans
Prefer the Guardian on Google Essendon president Andrew Welsh and new coach Mark McVeigh have offered an olive branch to James Hird, declaring they intend to speak with the club great about a role at the Bombers.
McVeigh was appointed Essendon coach on Monday, with the club opting for the Sydney Swans assistant ahead of fellow former Bombers player Hird, Fremantle’s Jaymie Graham and Adelaide’s Murray Davis.
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