North Melbourne is expecting to know whether Alastair Clarkson will be their next coach by Friday.
The Kangaroos, who wanted an indication from Clarkson on Wednesday, have been informed that the four-time premiership coach will make his decision before the weekend.
The North Melbourne board met on Wednesday night. They remain solely committed to securing Clarkson as the club’s new coach.
If he declines, the Roos will move to a Plan B headlined by Ken Hinkley and Leon Cameron.
Clarkson earlier this week withdrew from the GWS coaching process, citing a desire to remain and resume his coaching career in Victoria.
Essendon chiefs are in discussions with Clarkson’s manager James Henderson, but the Bombers still have Ben Rutten installed as coach.
Rutten is expecting to coach Essendon in its final game of the season against Richmond on Saturday night at the MCG.
Former TV executive David Barham took over as Essendon president on Monday.
Barham is determined to drive change and will soon commission an external review of the club.
Rutten is contracted for next year, meaning his payout would be included in the Bombers’ soft cap next year.
The AFL has told clubs the soft cap will rise by $500,000 next year and by another $250,000 a year later.
North Melbourne had wanted an indication from Clarkson today. Clarkson gave them one - informing them he would give them an answer by the end of Friday. The Roos board met tonight. They remain solely committed to the four-time premiership coach.
— Sam Edmund (@Sammy__Edmund) August 17, 2022