Candidate for top AFL job unfazed by drawn-out process

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AFL CEO candidate Andrew Dillon remains uncertain when a decision will be made on Gillon McLachlan’s successor but has no concern with the drawn-out process that started a year ago when McLachlan announced he was leaving.

Dillon is among at least five candidates for the job, which also include fellow AFL executives Kylie Rogers and Travis Auld as well as Richmond CEO Brendon Gale. Western Bulldogs president Kylie Watson-Wheeler is also among the contenders.

Andrew Dillon, one of the candidates for the AFL CEO position being vacated by Gillon McLachlan.Credit: Getty Images

Speaking at Norwood Oval ahead of Gather Round on Thursday, Dillon said he was happy for the commission to take the time they needed to make the decision.

“I think everyone who is in it is really comfortable with how it is going,” Dillon said.

Dillon has been heading up football operations since Brad Scott left to join Essendon, with the position not to be filled until a new CEO is appointed. Dillon said he was comfortable with the experience in the football operations department despite there having been no specific point of contact for clubs on football matters.

Dillon also said a return-to-play program could be developed for Paddy McCartin, but the main focus was ensuring the 26-year-old recovered from the concussion he suffered last Saturday night against Port Adelaide.

The concussion was alarming as it was McCartin’s 10th at AFL level and occurred when his head hit the ground as he contested the ball. McCartin has told Swans officials he has had some symptoms but is feeling reasonable.

“There was a robust and rigorous process put in place for him to return from not playing [to get] back to the VFL, from VFL back into the AFL,” Dillon said.

“A process like that will be in place, but it has not been completely set out.”

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