Ross Lyon

Carlton confirm contact with coaching candidate

“We’re going to try and accelerate through the process.”

Published by
Mitch Keating

Carlton president Luke Sayers has confirmed he has held discussions with Ross Lyon surrounding a potential interview process for the Blues' vacant senior coaching job.

Sayers and the club confirmed David Teague's departure from Ikon Park yesterday, which was soon followed by a press conference fronted by the newly-appointed Blues boss and chief executive Cain Liddle.

Sayers stated the club are looking into the best candidates on offer, with some focus on their experience at an AFL senior coaching level.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 24: Senior coach David Teague of the Blues looks on during the 2021 AFL Round 06 match between the Carlton Blues and the Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium on April 24, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Another note from Teague's sacking and the external review that led to his departure was a more needed focus on defence rather than attack, a game style Lyon is well versed with in his time at both St Kilda and Fremantle.

Speaking on SEN, Sayers revealed he had spoken to Lyon this week, who is keen to potentially pursue opportunities with the Princes park club.

“What I can tell you is I did have a conversation with Ross (Lyon) last night. A general conversation for about 45 minutes,” Sayers said.

“Ross is excited to put his hat in the ring once we figure out whatever is the process to move forward at the Carlton footy club.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 15: Ross Lyon, Senior Coach of the Dockers looks on during the 2017 AFL round 04 match between the Melbourne Demons and the Fremantle Dockers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on April 15, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

“Now we pivot and we’re looking for the best coach that we can possibly get to get a fantastic group winning games, into the finals next year and away we go.

“We’re going to try and accelerate through the process."

With the Blues officially cutting ties with Teague and Alastair Clarkson out of the frame for coaching in 2022, Lyon firms as the leading candidate to take over the reigns of the Carlton job.

Lyon managed a record of 163-4-118 from his 285 games in charge of the Saints and Dockers between 2007-2019.

Published by
Mitch Keating