Richmond caretaker coach Andrew McQualter says the membership will depart it as much as Jack Riewoldt and Trent Cotchin to determine whether or not they play on subsequent 12 months.
Riewoldt and Cotchin are nearing the top of their adorned careers and there is a probability each might pull the pin on the finish of this season.
Cotchin is 33 years outdated and has performed 304 video games, whereas 34-year-old Riewoldt has notched 343 matches.
Both gamers have proven indicators of slowing down this 12 months with Cotchin averaging 16.7 possessions per recreation and Riewoldt kicking solely 26 targets in 17 matches.
McQualter, who’s bidding to change into Richmond’s coach on a everlasting foundation, says he’ll depart the choice of their arms.
“Jack’s earned the right to make whatever decision he feels right,” McQualter advised reporters on Thursday.
“He and Trent are in the same boat. They’ve been absolute warriors for this football club.
“So no matter they determine to do, they’re going to have my full assist and the membership’s full assist.”
Riewoldt said earlier this week he’s still undecided about whether to play on next year.
The three-time premiership forward said the injury-enforced absence of fellow spearhead Tom Lynch had placed an extra challenge on him this season.
“I feel Jack could be the primary to say he’d love Lynchy on the market, it’d make life a bit simpler for him,” McQualter mentioned.
“But what, it simply reveals you the way a lot of a competitor Jack is.
“Physically he’s obviously not quite at the same level he was six or seven years ago, or five years ago.
“But he is simply such a competitor and finds a manner each week, and has an actual will to win.”
McQualter has led Richmond to six wins from eight matches since taking over from Damien Hardwick, who quit following the round-10 loss to Essendon.
The golden run under McQualter has lifted the Tigers into 10th spot, just percentage adrift of the top eight.
Applications for Richmond’s senior coaching position are set to close this week with interviews to follow.
Ken Hinkley, Adem Yze, Troy Chaplin, Don Pyke, Dean Cox, Ash Hansen, Daniel Giansiracusa, Josh Carr, Corey Enright and Justin Leppitsch are among the names that have been thrown up.
McQualter is loving his time in the hot seat and hopes to retain the post.
But the 37-year-old is supportive of the process Richmond is conducting.
“This membership has been a extremely robust membership for a purpose,” McQualter mentioned.
“They’re going to run a radical course of, which I totally assist and encourage. Whatever occurs will occur.”
Richmond’s finals credentials will obtain a stern take a look at on Sunday after they tackle top-four fancies Melbourne on the MCG.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
