Melbourne’s hunt for a new senior coach has taken an unexpected twist, with Brisbane Lions’ football boss Danny Daly declining an approach to join the Demons’ selection panel.
The club had sounded out Daly in recent days, but he confirmed it was not the right time for him to be involved in the process.
Daly’s decision comes as the Demons continue their search to replace Simon Goodwin, who departed last month. A seven-person panel has already been formed, featuring president Brad Green, incoming chief executive Paul Guerra and Essendon great Jobe Watson, among others.
Despite Daly’s refusal, former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley is still widely regarded as the leading candidate.
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Why Daly matters in AFL circles
The 57-year-old is considered one of the most respected figures in the game, having been touted as Chris Fagan’s eventual successor at Brisbane. Fagan himself acknowledged earlier this month just how highly valued Daly is at the Lions.
“I know we wouldn’t like to lose him, that’s for sure, but if it was for something like that (a head-coaching role), I’d be chairing him out of the place and saying ‘good luck and go well’,” Fagan told 7News.
“He’s been a fantastic help to me from the day I arrived here at this football club, and we’re like brothers, I reckon.”
Melbourne officials have reportedly held informal talks with as many as 15 coaches, including assistants Brendon Lade (Western Bulldogs), David Hale (Hawthorn) and James Kelly (Geelong).
A shortlist of six to eight names is expected to be finalised shortly, with the club keen to lock in a new coach before grand final week.