The GWS Giants have bowed out of the race for Alastair Clarkson.
It leaves North Melbourne and Essendon contending for the master coach’s signature.
It follows weeks of productive discussions between the Giants and Clarkson through which the four-time premiership coach was clearly impressed with the list and the culture of the club.
But ultimately, Clarkson wants to remain and resume his coaching career in Victoria.
Alastair Clarkson has told the Giants he wants to remain and resume his coaching career in Victoria
— Gerard Whateley (@GerardWhateley) August 16, 2022
North Melbourne v Essednon
McVeigh, Yze and Kingsley the last three for GWS @1116sen
In recent days it became clear to both parties this was the likely outcome and that was formally conveyed in the past 24 hours.
The Clarkson discussions were always running parallel to the formal coaching process at the Giants, which is now in its final stages.
Mark McVeigh, Adem Yze and Adam Kingsley are the three contenders, with a decision expected after the Giants' season concludes on Sunday.