Geelong assistant who is highly regarded James Kelly tops the coveted list for Carlton’s senior coach job.
He has publicly confirmed he’s firmly focused on the Carlton role, not Essendon’s opening.
Kelly largely works with Geelong’s midfield and has not stated any plans to leave.
Geelong did not comment on staff movements.
Carlton’s panel strongly denied favouring any candidate, calling that talk false.
The panel will objectively judge all applicants properly and promptly reveal its pick later this month.
Ultimate decisions will come shortly after interviews are done.