Fremantle assistant Jaymie Graham has become the latest high-profile candidate to withdraw from the race for the head coach position at West Coast.
The Eagles parted ways with Adam Simpson last month and recently announced a five-person panel to determine his replacement, with the decision expected in September.
Sydney assistant and former West Coast ruckman Dean Cox and Port Adelaide assistant Josh Carr had already removed themselves from consideration, and now Graham, a former Eagles staffer, has followed suit.
“I’m really comfortable with what I’m doing at Fremantle and I’m really enjoying the journey we’re on,” Graham told ABC on Sunday.
“I’ve had a great opportunity to develop and progress in my coaching here at Fremantle.
“I spoke to (Eagles CEO) Don Pyke during the week and informed him of my decision.
“I do want to coach one day, but I’m not in a rush and I’m really enjoying my role at Freo.”
Carlton’s Ash Hansen and current caretaker Jarrad Schofield are still highly regarded options for the role, along with Daniel Giansiracusa (Essendon), Hayden Skipworth (Collingwood), and Brett Montgomery (Greater Western Sydney).
AFL.com.au reported on Tuesday that Montgomery had received an official approach from West Coast as the club seeks an experienced assistant coach with strong development skills.
The panel conducting the interviews will include Geelong champion Harry Taylor, who is a part-time leadership consultant for the club, as well as Pyke, general manager of football Gavin Bell, and directors Jan Cooper and Rowan Jones.
