Essendon to meet with James Hird regarding football department role

Essendon Football Club is preparing to meet with club legend James Hird later this week to discuss a potential role within the club’s football department. This development comes as new coach Mark McVeigh begins a significant rebuilding process for the Bombers, seeking various positions including assistant coaches, football bosses, and a senior development coach.

Following reports that the club is targeting staff from top-four clubs, Hird expressed disappointment regarding the media leak of the potential meeting. He stated he was “genuinely upset” that private discussions were made public before he had time to consider his options, noting he is now unsure if he will attend the scheduled meeting.

This potential role represents a shift from Hird’s previous stance in July, when he indicated he was only interested in a senior coaching position. McVeigh is reportedly also looking at other candidates, including Amon Buchanan, while Brent Stanton is said to be largely secured for a role.