Carlton caretaker Josh Fraser has spoken publicly for the first time since officially joining the Blues coaching process, saying he already presented to the club this week.
Fraser has been a revelation since taking over from Michael Voss in May, winning 10 of 12 clashes, placing Carlton well within the Wildcard Round race.
“Nice to have an update for you guys, which is a bit different to the questions I've been answering,” Fraser said on Friday.
“A fortnight ago the club came to me and asked me to be a part of this coaching process. This week I was in a position to go back to the club and accept that offer to go through the process.
“I presented to the coaching panel this week, and now I can focus my attention on this weekend's game.
“I've been through the process, and I've said all along if I committed to that process, I was all in.
“Now it's in the hands of the selection panel, and we'll see what comes of that.”
If the Blues secure one win against the Western Bulldogs or Fremantle in the next fortnight, they will lock up a spot in the finals.
Fraser is vying for the position alongside Corey Enright, Jaymie Graham, Daniel Giansiracusa and James Kelly.
“I think it's been building. I have said previously I have been ambitious to be a senior coach,” he said.
“Fortunate to have been able to sit in the chair for the past 12 or 13 weeks and consolidate some of my thinking, get some opportunity and exposure to the role that otherwise you wouldn't normally get.
“And then obviously lining that up with everything else that comes with the job.
“It wasn't a specific time, but it's been something crystallising in my mind and thoughts. Really confident I'm ready to assume the responsibility of being a senior coach.”
Fraser also spoke on the prospect of vice-captain Jacob Weitering returning from a calf injury.
Weitering played in the VFL last week as the club looks to ensure he is fully ready for an AFL return.
“He'll train today. He got through the VFL last week well; he'll train today and be available for selection - that'll be a conversation we'll have post-training," Fraser said.
“It speaks to the growth of other players that have come in and performed roles. We have a responsibility to pick the best team for this week, and that's not just taking into account Jacob but taking into account everyone that is fit and available for selection.
“I can speak to last week and the professionalism with how he handled that conversation. Complete professional, showed great leadership, went back and led and helped others around him in the VFL.”
