Overview

• Paul Little, former Essendon president, has stated he would consider returning to the club's board if invited and if he could add value.
• Speculation has emerged that Little’s return could involve James Hird being reappointed as coach, though Hird has denied any recent discussions with Little and expressed surprise at the reports.
• Essendon Football Club extended current coach Brad Scott’s contract until 2027 earlier this year, a decision that reportedly caused discontent among some former club figures.
• The club has declined to comment on the possibility of a leadership challenge against current chair David Barham, as speculation intensifies ahead of the Dreamtime game at the MCG.
• The reports follow Essendon’s 91-point loss to the Western Bulldogs, adding pressure on the club’s current administration during its rebuilding phase.