Malthouse said he spoke to Cousins recently about whether or not the 2005 Brownlow Medallist and West Coast premiership player would continue his career in 2011. Cousins announced on Tuesday that he would retire at the end of round 22.
“I spoke to Ben last week for a considerable amount of time. He was a little bit each-way, but clearly he's made up his mind,” said Malthouse.
Malthouse coached Cousins from 1996-99 when the pair were at West Coast.
“I had the privilege of coaching Ben for four years, and I say privilege because he was a wonderful young bloke and a great young player.
“I wish him and his family every success for the future. He may be able to use his experiences in some sort of mentoring position, and direct players down the right path.”
