Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell says he’s “comfortable” with their team of assistant coaches and that Bombers legend James Hird is “always welcome back” at the club.
Blake Caracella (midfield and attack), Daniel Giansiracusa (backline) and Dale Tapping (forwards) are the Bombers’ three senior assistants who work closely with senior coach Ben Rutten.
After a 2-9 start to the season, Essendon has launched an extensive review of its football program, including the coaching department.
Sportsday co-host Sam McClure quizzed Campbell about Hird, who resigned as Bombers coach in 2015 amid the fallout from the infamous supplements saga.
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McClure: “There’s been a lot of talk about James Hird … any interest in bringing him back to the club?”
Campbell: “James is always welcome back at the footy club.
“I would argue that he’s not disconnected with the football club either.”
McClure: “Would you welcome him back as a coach?”
Campbell: “We’ve got a coach and we’re very comfortable and confident in our coach.”
McClure: “As an assistant coach?”
Campbell: “They’re decisions for Josh (Mahoney) and Ben (Rutten) to work through as they position and resource their football program.
“I think we’re very comfortable with our assistant coaches too.
“We’re very comfortable with what we’re doing now, and we believe in our plan.”
Hird joined GWS’ coaching staff earlier this month to assist Giants caretaker coach and former Essendon teammate Mark McVeigh.
Campbell recently signed a two-year contract extension to stay on as Bombers chief.