James Hird Reacts to Surprising Report on His Potential Return as Essendon Coach: ‘I Almost Fell Off the Couch’

Essendon legend James Hird has addressed speculation regarding his desire to return as coach of his former team.

Caroline Wilson reported on Monday night that the 52-year-old is eager to reclaim the coaching role he held from 2011 to 2015.

However, Hird told Nine that he was taken aback by the claims, insisting they came as a complete surprise to him.

Wilson noted that any potential coaching return for Hird would likely coincide with the possible return of former club chairman Paul Little to a position of influence within the club.

“Paul Little, the previous chairman of Essendon and a generous supporter during the turbulent years of 2013, 2014, and 2015, has not dismissed the possibility of returning to the Essendon board,” Wilson stated during a Channel Seven broadcast.

“I believe a return would likely see James Hird stepping in as coach.”

“All year, this narrative has been brewing.

“As soon as the club announced the re-signing of Brad Scott until 2027, murmurs of discontent among some of the former players were raised, who questioned the necessity of that decision.”

“I truly believe James still harbours aspirations to coach Essendon. I am entirely convinced of this.”

In a statement to Nine’s Footy Classified, Hird expressed his astonishment regarding the news.

“This is news to me. I haven’t had any contact with Paul Little for several months. I almost fell off the couch when I heard it,” he remarked.

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Little also provided a statement to Channel Seven, asserting that “you can never say never to anything” and suggesting that “there may come a time when a restructure is necessary.”

“If I felt I could contribute positively to the club, and if they believed I could help, I’d certainly consider it.”

Regarding Hird, he commented, “I regard him as a friend, both within and outside of football.”

Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd believes that this whole situation will only serve to frustrate the club.

“This is not beneficial for the club. James has denied the claims, and I believe him in this situation. Unfortunately, distractions like this emerge, especially after a heavy loss by 91 points,” Lloyd shared with Footy Classified.

“This kind of situation is the last thing those involved with the club need, as they are eager to focus on becoming the elite club they aspire to be.”

Hird coached the Bombers in 85 games and his exit from the role came during the tumultuous supplement scandal that plagued the club.

He is currently working as an assistant coach for Port Melbourne in the VFL.

Current Essendon coach Brad Scott will join Hird on the panel for Nine’s Footy Classified this Tuesday night.