Liam Pickering is encouraging North Melbourne to “ask the question” of legendary Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson if Rhyce Shaw steps away from the job in 2021.
The Roos confirmed on Friday that Shaw is taking time away from the club for an indefinite period due to personal reasons.
SEN Chief Sports Reporter Sam Edmund said it was now “almost certain” that the 39-year-old has coached his last game at the club.
Pickering said North Melbourne at the very least should enquire whether Clarkson, who has coached Hawthorn to four premierships, would consider returning to the club where he played 93 games between 1987 and 1995.
“I know it won’t happen, but the other option is Alastair (Clarkson),” he said on Off The Bench.
“He’s an ex-North Melbourne (player), I don’t think he’d (accept the offer) as he’s contracted (to Hawthorn), but the reality is the Hawks are in a rebuild.
“North Melbourne will ask the question, that I have no doubt. They’ll be derelict in their duty not to.
“They asked this time last year so ask again 12 months later.
“I could only see it if Hawthorn was also of the view that with the new group coming through, they need a fresh voice, but I don’t think they will.
“I just think it’s worth asking the question, he’s a favourite son of the club and is mates with (several people at North Melbourne).”
Pickering also suggested North Melbourne ask Ross Lyon, who last coached with Fremantle in 2019, whether he’d be interested in taking on the role.
“I’d go after Ross Lyon at 100 mile an hour if it was me,” he said.
“I just don’t know whether Ross would be interested in it or not.”