Carlton coach Denis Pagan has pledged to honour his contract at Optus Oval, ending Hawthorn's audacious bid to lure him to Glenferrie.

Carlton was moved by reports of a Hawthorn poaching raid to issue a statement affirming Pagan would fulfill the final year of his contract with the Blues in 2005 and perhaps beyond.

"I will be coaching the Carlton Football Club in 2005, it is an exciting time at Carlton this year after a tough couple of seasons," Pagan said.

"There is no doubt we have made some real progress and we look forward to this continuing in 2005 and beyond.

"We are back participating fully in the national draft adding to the excitement and anticipation for our future and I look forward to being a part of the Carlton Football Club as we continue this development."

Carlton chief executive Michael Malouf said the club would look at extending Pagan's deal when it conducts a post-season review.

The rumours of Pagan's departure were fuelled by perceived friction with the club over his generous salary - reported to be as much as $2 million over three years - that was inherited from the previous club administration.

"As for the rumours regarding any conflict between Denis and Carlton Directors, once again I wish to confirm there is no conflict between the senior coach and any members of the Carlton Football Club Board," Malouf said.

"There is absolutely no substance to the rumours regarding Denis Pagan not coaching Carlton in 2005."

Meanwhile Hawthorn's interim chief executive Jason Dunstall confirmed the appointment of the club's new coach was still several days away, with about half a dozen candidates still in contention.

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