Eagles Coach Adam Simpson has thrown his support behind former mentor Alastair Clarkson after he stepped away from coaching the Kangaroos to focus on his physical and emotional wellbeing.

Brett Ratten will step in to take the reigns at North Melbourne as Clarkson continues deal with the fallout of an investigation into allegations of mistreatment of First Nations players during his time at the Hawks.

Simpson, who spent four years coaching under Clarkson at Hawthorn, told Wide World of Sports’ Adam Papalia he will reach out to his friend and former colleague when the time is right.

“I feel sorry for him at the moment and what he’s going through and hopefully he can get better soon ” Simpson said.

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