Francou’s exit to leave void

GOLD Coast have an enormous challenge to replace outgoing senior assistant coach Josh Francou who has been revealed to be one of the football department’s most astute tacticians.

The midfield coach (pictured) will depart the Suns at the end of the season, citing family reasons, with his wife and children planning on returning to Adelaide over the school holidays.

Francou’s plans were confirmed by the Suns earlier this month while it was also suggested by some that he had a falling out with senior coach Stuart Dew. The Suns have staunchly denied the claims.

Francou is credited with leading the club’s brains trust when it comes to playing systems, structures and game strategy.

Suns midfielder Hugh Greenwood said Francou’s presence played a big role in his decision to leave the Adelaide Crows to join Gold Coast.

“Josh was a big selling point for me to come up here,” Greenwood said.

“I love picking his brain, he is a great man and was an unbelievable footballer. I have felt like I played my best footy since coming here and he has been a big part of that.”