Carlton coach Brett Ratten with one year still to go on his contract was dismissed by the Blues on Thursday morning ending debate on Ratten’s future with the club he has represented for over 24 years as a player and coach. Although there has not be an heir-apparent, speculation grows that Mick Malthouse or Paul Roos will be appointed to coach the Blues from 2013.
Club president Stephen Kernahan addressed the media describing Ratten as a “great Carlton man”, outlining his career successes as a player and coach. Ratten admitted that the Blues fell short of their objective of finishing in the 4 this year and that was the catalyst for his departure. Whether or not the injury depleted playing list or the disastrous loss against the Gold Coast last week made a difference to his future is academic as the team failed in its objective to play finals football in 2012 .
“I started the year – I want to finish the year,” Ratten said, confirming that he would coach for the final time this Sunday, when Carlton plays a home game against St.Kilda at Etihad Stadium. No doubt many thousands of Carlton fans will give one of Carlton’s favourite sons’ a farewell to remember.
Ratten praised players and staff at Carlton and said the Blues have the talent and capacity to win a premiership. Describing himself as a career coach, he remains upbeat and will be looking for opportunities to continue senior coaching.