Carlton captain Patrick Cripps has sharply increased the chances of David Teague taking on the AFL club’s coaching role next year by throwing his weight behind the Blues’ interim boss.
“I’m on the Teague train,” Cripps told Channel Seven on Sunday.
“I’ve heard #Teague2020 is getting around and I’m all for it.”
Teague has rejuvenated the Blues in his short time at the helm.
The 38-year-old inherited a talented but demoralised side in June following Brendon Bolton’s sacking, with just one win in 11 matches.
Under Teague, Carlton rebounded with five victories in their next seven.
The race to be Carlton boss could be a two-man contest between Teague and Michael Voss.
The Blues reportedly interviewed Voss, a Port Adelaide assistant who coached Brisbane Lions for five seasons before being let go in 2013 after missing the finals for four seasons.
If the decision was up to Cripps, the club’s brightest star, Teague would be given a contract tomorrow.
“The way the boys have been playing the last few weeks, the growth is definitely building,” he said.
“Teaguey has brought the best out of certain players in different roles. The boys are buying into those roles.
“It has been some dark times but the boys are starting to really believe and we’ve got some confidence about us.”
Cripps also revealed Teague, Carlton’s forward line coach under Bolton, was a key figure in an off-season recruitment.
“One thing about Teaguey I loved he always speaks his mind but he’s usually fun,” he said.
“All the forwards loved him and that’s a big reason why Mitch McGovern came across from Adelaide, because of Teaguey.
“He’s got that balance where he has a laugh in front of the group so everyone relaxes around him but when he flicks the switch and is serious, everyone stares straight through him and tunes in.
“I’ve really loved having him as a senior coach … he’s been awesome.”
Carlton is one of three clubs to have parted ways with coaches this season.
North Melbourne has already appointed homegrown assistant Rhyce Shaw to the top job after Brad Scott’s departure.
St Kilda could also do the same with Brett Ratten in the mix to succeed Alan Richardson.
