James Hird, a revered figure at Essendon, has reacted to recent speculation about his potential return to coaching the team he once led from 2011 to 2015. Following a report by journalist Caroline Wilson, who suggested that Hird is keen on landing his former position, Hird expressed his surprise, stating that the claims were unexpected and unfounded.
Hird, aged 52, shared his astonishment with Nine, asserting he hadn’t spoken to former Essendon chairman Paul Little for months and was taken aback by the speculation. Wilson noted that any comeback for Hird as a coach would likely coincide with Little reinstating himself in a significant role at the club. Little, during his tenure from 2013 to 2015, played a crucial part amid challenging times for the club and indicated that he remained open to returning if it could benefit Essendon.
The narrative surrounding Hird’s ambitions appears fueled by unrest among some club supporters regarding the recent re-signing of current coach Brad Scott until 2027. Wilson believes there is still a desire from Hird to coach Essendon, a sentiment echoed by former player Matthew Lloyd, who expressed concern that such distractions could prove detrimental to the club’s focus and progression.
Hird’s coaching career with Essendon ended amid significant controversy related to a supplements scandal, and he has since been contributing as an assistant coach for Port Melbourne in the VFL. In light of the latest reports, Hird’s comments indicate a clear distancing from the current narrative while underscoring his commitment to his present role.
Overall, while Hird remains a celebrated figure within the Essendon community, he has firmly denied any immediate interest in reclaiming a head coaching position, urging for the club to concentrate on its current direction without the distraction of speculation.