Merrett praises Hird, steers clear of coach speculation

He would not be drawn on what that means for his playing future, given he unsuccessfuly sought a move to Hawthorn in last year's trade period.

Hird coached him in 2015, early in Merrett's career, before he left the role.

Including Scott's replacement Dean Solomon and other interim appointments, Merrett now has had nine senior coaches since his 2014 debut.

Earlier on Tuesday, Essendon president Andrew Welsh did not rule out Hird's possible return.

"I can only go off our relationship. It's very strong," Merrett said of Hird.

"He's been a great mentor and someone I can always confide in. 

"From that perspective, I really get on well with him. He's a got a great viewpoint on the game.

"In terms of coaching, it's just such a good one for headlines. I'm not sure if it will eventuate or not."

Merrett noted it had been a "whirlwind 24 hours all-round", also paying tribute to fellow former Essendon captain Neale Daniher after his death on Monday.

The star Bombers midfielder was asked what Scott's sacking might mean for his future, given the speculation remains he will again seek a trade after this season.

"I can't - I woke up this morning assuming Brad was coach. I don't think it's the right point in time to have that conversation," he said.

Welsh also said on Tuesday the Bombers expect Merrett to see out his contract to the end of next season.

Merrett found out about Scott's sacking by chance on Tuesday morning, hearing it from a fellow customer at a cafe near the club's Tullamarine headquarters.

"These things obviously get out quickly. There was probably never going to be a nice way or good way to find that out," Merrett said.

"I'm human, obviously. To have gone through five coaches now ... you want to think about yourself, but it's a team sport.

"You quickly try and pull yourself back into not making excuses and getting to work - we have so many players who haven't experienced this before.

"It's been one of those days."

Merrett was speaking at a promotion for Japanese brewer Sapporo, arranged before Tuesday's dramas.

"I'd love to tip in a few cold beers after the day I've had, but I might need to hold them until Sunday night (after their next game against West Coast)," he said.

Merrett praised Scott, saying probably the best 70-75 games of his career had been played under him.

He also reflected on going through another change of coach at Essendon.

"There have been some dark days, no doubt. But everyone is dealt different cards in their footy journey and I've also had some great 'ups'.