AFL: Sacked St Kilda coach Brett Ratten to work for North Melbourne

New North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson has turned to a familiar friend to help him in 2023.

Alastair Clarkson and Brett Ratten have reunited at North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

Sacked St Kilda coach Brett Ratten has been given an AFL lifeline by new North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson.

Ratten, who was dumped by the Saints in a shock move after the season and replaced with Ross Lyon, will join the Kangaroos as an assistant coach in a part-time capacity.

He links up with Clarkson again after spending six seasons at Hawthorn, including the club’s successful premiership era from 2013-2015, as an assistant.

“Brett comes to the club as an experienced, knowledgeable football person and we are thrilled to welcome him to Arden St,” North Melbourne’s general manager of football Todd Viney said.

North Melbourne has further bolstered the club's coaching group with the appointment of Brett Ratten ✍️

— North Melbourne FC (@NMFCOfficial) November 24, 2022

“Brett is a highly regarded operator who has been part of premiership success during his time at Hawthorn. His vast coaching experience will be a huge asset for our club.”

Ratten’s focus will be on the midfield group during the week and on AFL match days.

Clarkson has taken the reins at North despite a pending investigation into historical allegations of racism during his time at the Hawks, a period including when Ratten was at the club.

No allegations have been made against Ratten.