Following Alan Richardson's departure this week, the rumour mill of the next St Kilda coach has already begun.

Saints GM of Football, Simon Lethlean has publicly denounced the claims that former Roos coach Brad Scott is in line for the job.

Speaking withย SEN Breakfast, Lethlean was asked if "something had already been done" regarding Brad Scott, a friend of the Saints front office.

โ€œFor people to suggest thatโ€™s a done deal or that Iโ€™m going to show preference to someone Iโ€™m friends with is pretty nonsensical really, but you canโ€™t stop people from saying it," Lethlean said.

โ€œWeโ€™re not going to rule out or rule in anybody that has a relationship with myself, our president, our CEO or anyone at the club.

โ€œIf it is that Brad wants to be part of the process, if he is the best applicant for the job, then that will be assessed by a number of people, not just me.โ€

Brett Ratten is the caretaker coach of the Saints for the remainder of the season as the six-win club looks to finish the season strong after an inspiring beginning to 2019.

They play the Western Bulldogs this Sunday at Marvel Stadium.