Carlton fans have made their preference clear: they want Josh Fraser to become the club's permanent coach. Sunday night's 44-point victory over St Kilda at Marvel Stadium was the Blues' 10th win from 12 games under Fraser, who took over from Michael Voss mid-season.
Fraser's Remarkable Turnaround
Fraser's record since stepping in has been nothing short of remarkable, especially considering Carlton won just two of their first 10 games to start the year. A win against the Western Bulldogs next week would secure a finals berth with one round remaining.
The on-field resurgence comes as Carlton's hierarchy finalises its search for Voss's permanent replacement. St Kilda assistant Corey Enright, Fremantle's Jaymie Graham, Geelong's James Kelly, and Hawthorn's Daniel Giansiracusa are the remaining candidates, with Fraser yet to decide whether he will formally apply.
Fans Make Their Voices Heard
With minutes left in the game, the Carlton faithful began chanting 'We want Fraser'. Commentator Abbey Holmes noted the scene: "They are chanting 'We want Fraser'. With this win here tonight, 10-2 under (Josh Fraser). Carlton fans — give the people what they want."
Blues spearhead Harry McKay admitted he heard the chant during the match. "I did actually hear it with a couple of minutes left," he told Channel 7. "I was thinking Frase might even crack a smile at that. He'd be pretty happy with himself."
McKay praised Fraser's even-keeled approach: "Balance is a great word; (he's) never too high or too low, and I think in that job, it's so crucial to have that trait."
Midfielder Sam Walsh echoed the sentiment, saying: "He's never made it about himself once, but he's reaping the rewards and he'd just be so happy for us, and likewise we're happy for him and the support he's getting."
If Fraser chooses to enter the race, his record since taking over makes him the overwhelming favourite to land the role permanently.
