Listen to Justin Leppitsch and there’s no doubt he’ll still be at the helm of Brisbane next year.
The Lions coach’s position appears increasingly untenable with every week that passes in a miserable 2016 campaign.
Saturday’s 94-point thrashing by Port Adelaide at the Gabba was the latest in a string of humiliating results for a club saddled with debt and a lack of resources.
Throughout it all Leppitsch has stayed true to his belief the club’s faith in young prospects will pay dividends.
He has also bemoaned an injury toll which has shorn him of three of his most experienced players in Dayne Beams, Tom Bell and Allen Christensen.
While many may not think it worth his time, Leppitsch is already looking ahead to an improved time for him and the Lions in 2017.
“I think we’ve got eight season-enders now, so we haven’t had any luck either along the journey,” he said.
“I’m kind of hoping and praying that the footy gods smile on me next year.
“The footy world would say we’ve got some great young talent on our list, it’s only early days for this boys. We’ve got to have patience.”