The Age’s Caroline Wilson doesn’t expect Alastair Clarkson to coach North Melbourne next season.
Clarkson stood down from his role with the Kangaroos after allegations were made against him and other figures over the mistreatment of Indigenous and First Nations players during his time at Hawthorn.
The allegations were made against the four-time premiership coach in an external review commissioned by Hawthorn and revealed in ABC Sport’s Russell Jackson’s subsequent report.
While the 54-year-old denied any wrongdoing in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, Wilson believes it’s going to be “difficult” for him to take charge at Arden Street in 2023 as the AFL brings together a four-person panel to investigate.
“I really think it’s going to be difficult for Alastair,” Wilson said on Sportsday.
“North are backing him and say they want him back.
“Brisbane feels the same way about Chris Fagan.
“But I can’t see Alastair Clarkson coaching North Melbourne, certainly this year.”
Brisbane coach Chris Fagan has also stood down after he was implicated having worked at the Hawks from 2008 to 2016.
The AFL is yet to announce the four-person panel led by a King’s Counsel, but Wilson believes that could come before the end of this week.
Clarkson was due to start with the Kangaroos ahead of pre-season after inking a five-year deal to become the club’s head coach in August.