In short:
Some West Coast players have reportedly sent text messages since their latest loss saying they want Adam Simpson replaced as Eagles coach.
Simpson says “disgruntled” players are “part of the job” and maintains he has the team’s support and is the right man to coach West Coast.
What’s next:
The Eagles play the Demons in Melbourne on Sunday, with Simpson saying they will “try and unite and be better”.
West Coast Eagles coach Adam Simpson is adamant he still has the support of the AFL side’s playing group, following reports of player discontent.
The West Australian newspaper has reported text messages involving players wanting a change in coach following the Eagles’ 10-goal loss to Hawthorn at Perth Stadium last weekend.
“It’s not ideal, but it’s not uncommon either,” Simpson told journalists on Friday in response to questions about the reports.
“It happened when I was under Dennis [Pagan], it happened when I was working with Clarko [Alastair Clarkson], and it happens all the time.
“There’s always people that are disgruntled, it’s just part of the job. I think I’ve still got the players.”
Simpson said he would address the reports with the players, but would not launch a “witch-hunt.”
“I’ll just talk to players today and we’ll try and unite and be better on the weekend,” he said.
The Eagles were heavily criticised for a disappointing performance against the Hawks, despite fielding their strongest side this season.
West Coast have won just eight games in the past three seasons, and lost seven by more than 100 points, and a further four by 80 points.
Simpson ‘committed to the build’
Simpson believes he is still the right person to take the Eagles through a rebuild.
“I love my job,” he said.
“I love the club, I love the players and I love coaching, so there’s no issues there. It’s just going to take time.”
The 2018 premiership coach said he was not worried about any potential decision about his role as coach, with his contract still due to run until the end of next season.
“All I can control is what I do,” Simpson said.
“If the club makes a decision, that’s fine, but if they back me in, that’s great.
“I’m committed to the build, so we’re starting.
“I know the two previous years was difficult to get anything from that detraction from COVID, and injuries and availability, but we’re legitimately starting that build now.”
The Eagles travel to Melbourne to face the Demons on Sunday at the MCG.
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