FREMANTLE skipper Nat Fyfe insists there’s still plenty of love for Ross Lyon, but says it’s important for the player group to trust the club’s decision to sack the veteran AFL coach.
The Dockers dropped a double bombshell on Tuesday when they axed Lyon and chief executive Steve Rosich.
Fyfe formed a close relationship with Lyon during their time together and was sad to see the 52-year-old depart.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWThe 2015 Brownlow medallist wasn’t consulted about the decision to sack Lyon, with the club’s board taking it upon themselves to initiate the bloodshed.
Fyfe said it was important for the player group to refocus and move forward.
“No individual is more important or bigger than the Fremantle Football Club and as a club we want to be a part of the first premiership,” Fyfe told Seven News.
“We all need to do what we can to move closer towards that.
“The comments that have been used multiple times is that (the decision) was made for clear air and a new direction.
“The board has their reasons for making these big calls and as the captain and as players it’s on us now to trust that decision and focus on what we can control, which starts this weekend against Port Adelaide.”
Rumours of unrest at Fremantle played a significant role in Lyon’s downfall.
But Fyfe said Lyon was an extremely well respected figure at the Dockers.
“He’s adapted his coaching style over the last couple of years to suit the modern game, the modern player,” Fyfe said.
“If you look at the commentary from really respected people at this club and his former club St Kilda, there’s a lot of love for Ross Lyon.
“He gave this club real credibility on the east coach. He took us to places the club had never been before.
“Under his coaching I won a Brownlow, I played in multiple prelims and a grand final. So (I’ve got) nothing but respect for him.”
Fyfe said it was now important to rally behind caretaker coach David Hale ahead of Sunday’s clash with the Power in Adelaide.
“It’s a call to arms for leaders across our club, both in administration, coaching, sport science, medical – everyone in their respective positions to grab the people in their area and really move forward,” Fyfe said.
More news
