Jon Pierik

Neale Daniher, the champion VFL footballer who coached Melbourne and became the courageous figurehead of the battle against motor neurone disease, has died.

The Blues are playing with more attacking freedom under interim coach Josh Fraser, and these are the six men playing a key role in the mid-season rally.

The tributes have continued to flow for Neale Daniher, including from elder brother Terry, the two-time Essendon premiership-winning former captain.

Essendon great Kevin Sheedy is confident James Hird would not waste a third chance to coach the club, as the Bombers face calls to clarify whether Hird has all but won the top job.

Club great Kevin Sheedy has spoken about a potential James Hird return to Essendon, as the Bombers face calls to clarify whether Hird has all but been assured of the top role.

A potential candidate to replace the axed Brad Scott said he wants the Bombers to clarify whether James Hird has all but won the top job.

A potential candidate said he would not apply while the job appeared Hird’s to lose.