GOLD COAST SUNS
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Favourite - Mark Thompson
All the pieces seem to be falling into place. Guy McKenna is gone and Mark Thompson pointedly changed his position on Monday by saying there was a possibility he would leave Essendon. The Suns have said that "announcements" will be made in the coming week. Thompson also has a proven track record at Geelong for nurturing a large group of talented players entering their prime together, and then taking that core group to a premiership. His time at the Bombers this season not only re-energised his passion for coaching, but reminded the industry of his unique qualities as a head coach.
ADELAIDE
Favourite - Brendon Bolton
Understood to have presented a case to Mark Ricciuto and the Crows' coaching panel, and was advised by Alastair Clarkson through the process. Was little-known until Clarkson trusted him with Hawthorn for five weeks while the senior coach battled an illness, and Bolton aced a very public audition. His regular role at the Hawks is forward-line coach and overseeing training procedures. Was unanimously endorsed as Clarkson's fill-in by the players. Has experience coaching his own team at Box Hill, a quality Clarkson and other astute judges think is essential.
The other candidates for either club
Stuart Dew
The Swans' strategy and midfield coach. Seen as the most likely of the untried coaches, outside of Bolton. Paul Roos is an advocate for his game day tactics and delivery of messages to players and attempted to secure him last year for the Melbourne senior assistant job (now filled by Simon Goodwin).
Nathan Bassett
The Essendon forward-line coach who has come into the frame for the Adelaide job. A popular player through his 210-game career at the Crows, it's believed Adelaide has already targeted Bassett as a potential candidate. Would have gained valuable experience under Thompson this year.
Brett Ratten
Must be better equipped to handle another senior job now having worked closely with Clarkson in the best system in the league, and without the added pressure of being a playing great at Carlton. Coached the Blues for six seasons for a 51 per cent winning record. Currently stoppage coach at Hawthorn.
Mark Bickley
The romantic option for the Crows. The dual premiership captain fits the notion of Adelaide being more accepting of one of their own than they might be of an outsider. Perhaps the most likely of the Crows' assistants.
Scott Burns
Was overlooked for the Crows job when Brenton Sanderson was appointed in 2012, and also for the West Coast job when Adam Simpson was given that role. Currently midfield coach at Collingwood, he would take heart from the experiences of coaches like Ken Hinkley and Alan Richardson finally getting jobs after years of rejection.
Leigh Tudor
His low profile continues to gain more traction after he was poached by North Melbourne and took control of the midfield. A number of players took a step forward in their development under his coaching, and he played a part in the Roos' success this season.
Peter Sumich
Has certainly paid his dues as an assistant coach in the same way Hinkley and Richardson did. Still has the desire to become a senior coach despite being overlooked for the West Coast job, which he seemed to be front-runner for at the time. Now learning under Ross Lyon at Fremantle.
Ruled out
Michael Voss
Says there is "no way" he would coach or even be involved at a club next season.
John Worsfold
Told the media he had no interest in coaching, or at least "definitely not in the next 12 months".