Melbourne close to signing Alan Richardson in key coaching role

Alan Richardson will work as an assistant to Simon Goodwin next season after the Demons won the race to sign the sacked St Kilda coach.

Former St Kilda coach Alan Richardson. Picture: Michael Klein.

Melbourne has won the race to win the services of former St Kilda coach Alan Richardson.

The Demons completed negotiations with Richardson today about a key coaching role for next season.

Football manager Josh Mahoney led the Dees’ chase for Richardson.

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Melbourne wants the sacked Saints coach to help coach Simon Goodwin and the young playing group bounce back up the ladder next season.

North Melbourne also had strong interest in Richardson.

Richardson, who was sacked by the Saints late in the season after six years in charge, has received offers from clubs around the country.

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Former St Kilda coach Alan Richardson is close to landing a new job in club land. Picture: Michael Klein.

“Alan is extremely well respected within the industry and it was no surprise that he had a number of options from other clubs, and we are pleased that he has chosen Melbourne,” football manager Josh Mahoney said.

“He brings with him a wealth of knowledge having filled a number of senior football roles at a number of clubs.”

Melbourne has two key vacancies after parting ways with assistants Brendan McCartney and strategist Craig Jennings and believe Richardson would be a perfect addition for Goodwin.

Richardson has joined the Demons. And the offers came from everywhere. https://t.co/6LcHSQ1iSD

— Jay Clark (@ClarkyHeraldSun) August 23, 2019

Richardson was highly regarded for his development work at Collingwood and Port Adelaide, before he received the top job at St Kilda.

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While he was unable to guide the Saints into finals during his tenure, his mix of character traits and game understanding are highly-rated.

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