WITH Rodney's Eade's future at Gold Coast uncertain, star recruit Pearce Hanley says he's a massive fan of the veteran coach, and would love for him to be re-signed by the club.
Hanley was lured to the Suns after 129 games in nine seasons at the Brisbane Lions, and declared Eade had been a big positive in a season where the Irishman has battled problems on and off the field.
With Eade in the final season of a three-year deal, Hanley said he fully supported retaining the former Sydney and Western Bulldogs coach.
"Absolutely (I'd like him to be re-signed), he's been great," Hanley said on Friday.
"He's been under a lot of pressure, but I can't fault him, he's been excellent this year.
"He's been good for my football, and I'm enjoying my time at the Suns."
While he's relishing his first season on the Gold Coast, Hanley sadly lost his younger brother Tommy to cancer in March.
Upon his return from bereavement leave, injuries began to bite, with ankle, heel and hamstring concerns contributing to Hanley playing just eight matches so far this year.
Recruited to beef-up the Suns' midfield class alongside superstar Gary Ablett, the 28-year-old concedes his new start hasn't gone as planned.
"I've had a bit of an indifferent year, so while I don't want to be too hard on myself, I've had a tough year off-field and then I've missed games with injuries," he said.
"(Lack of) continuity hasn't helped. Obviously, the start of the year with form and then coming back with injuries.
"Personally, it's been poor, but I'm excited to finish off the year strong."
The playmaker's 2017 campaign may stretch into November, with Ireland returning to Australia for another International Rules tour.
While he's keen to help his homeland retain the Cormac McAnallen Cup, a family commitment may prevent him representing the Irish in a third series against the Aussies.
"I'm always happy to pull on the green jersey, but my sister gets married in the off-season, so hopefully it doesn't clash with that," Hanley said.
"If it doesn't, I'd love to play for Ireland."
