The AFL has warned against expecting a quick lift in Melbourne’s fortunes despite the appointment of interim chief executive Peter Jackson.
AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou says Jackson, who filled senior administrative positions at Essendon between 1996 and 2009, will help the Demons.
But after last week’s sacking of chief executive Cameron Schwab on the grounds he was a divisive figure and Melbourne’s horror season start on-field, Demetriou says there is no quick fix.
“I just don’t think you can expect dramatic improvement,” he told reporters in Sydney.
“If you’re being realistic and pragmatic, you’ve got to believe that in time all clubs can turn it around – including Melbourne.
“It might take time for them to start performing on-field. It might take time for them to rebuild their confidence – both on and off the field.
“They’ve got a very sound board in place and the Peter Jackson appointment is fantastic.
“But people will have to be patient.”
Jackson, who since leaving the Bombers has combined AFL and VFL advisory roles with other business interests, has signed on with the Demons for six months, starting on May 1.
The Demons board said in a statement announcing Jackson’s appointment that he had the experience to assess where the club was going wrong.
“The board is the first to acknowledge that today, the club as a whole, both on and off the field, has not met the goals we set four years ago,” they said.
“This is unacceptable and must be addressed.
“The board has appointed Peter as an interim CEO to critically assess all aspects of our club.”
He will also help choose their next full-time chief executive.
While Sunday’s clash with fellow strugglers Greater Western Sydney has been mooted as a potential tipping point in coach Mark Neeld’s future, Demetriou said a loss to the Giants shouldn’t make a difference.
“I don’t think this weekend’s result should have a bearing on where they need to take this football club,” he said.