Football department staffers and players were asked for their views at the end of the season - and seemingly painted a bleak picture of their coach. In a frank press conference on Wednesday, football boss Todd Viney pointed to tactical "gaping holes" and muddied messages that confused players.
* Isn't Todd Viney good mates with Clarkson?
Yes. Or they certainly were up until this development. Viney admitted it's going to take "a little bit of time for it to get back to normal". The duo had both been appointed by North in 2022, tasked with spearheading the club's rebuild.
* Wasn't Clarkson contracted until the end of 2027?
Yes, club president Sonja Hood noted there was a termination clause in Clarkson's contract. Hood didn't detail the figure, but The Age has previously reported Clarkson would receive a payout of close to $1 million for the final season if sacked.Â
* Where to now for Alastair Clarkson?
It is expected to be the end of his decorated 472-game AFL coaching career. The four-time premiership mentor is yet to make a definitive call, but released a statement noting "my family and I have been privileged to be involved in AFL football for over 40 years, but it's now time for a new chapter".
* Who will coach North in 2027?
Until someone is appointed, John Longmire and Adam Simpson's names will be touted by pundits - no matter what they say. They are premiership coaches and former North players. Hood insists nobody has been - nor will be - headhunted, declaring "this club needs a coach who can coach for the modern game". Corey Enright and Jaymie Graham are among the league's highly rated assistants.
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