AFL Hall of Famer Jason Akermanis has flagged Dale Morris as a prime senior coaching candidate sliding under the radar.
With Essendon and Carlton both casting the net wide to fill two of footy's hottest seats, Akermanis has singled out Morris as a dark horse capable of stepping up.
"Dale Morris has had a huge impact at the Brisbane Lions," Akermanis told Zero Hanger.
Akermanis likened Morris to another teammate, Craig McRae, who is renowned for his man-management and ability to give constructive criticism and stay positive.
"The way he works with the players is just outstanding. Like McRae, he can tell you exactly what's going on in a nice way," Akermanis said
Morris was revered for his leadership on and off the field at the Western Bulldogs, famously playing a key role in the 2016 premiership.
After starting as a development coach at Whitten Oval, Morris moved to a similar role at the Lions before progressing to his current assistant coach (defence) role.
Akermanis said while the cameras focused on senior coach Chris Fagan on the bench, key assistants Morris and Cameron Bruce were making key calls in the coaches' box.
"Those guys are doing moves you don't see," Akermanis said.
"Moz (Morris) has a real ability to tweak on game day, as does Bruce ... he's good at that, too
"Moz is great during the week and wonderful and game day.
"He has a knack of making people feeling good, saying things like 'things are not overly wrong, we just need to fix a few things.
"I love him."
Akermanis played with Morris at the Dogs and has seen his impact first-hand.
Morris played 253 games at the Bulldogs and is a member of the club's Hall of Fame.
