Melbourne president Jim Stynes has lauded Dean Bailey as the ideal man to lift the Demons out of their AFL rut after the coach earned a contract extension until the end of 2011.

Stynes said Bailey had adapted to the vision implemented when he took over the presidency in mid-2008 and a new administration was put in place.

"Obviously there's been lots of changes in the last two years," Stynes said.

"We've practically had to rebuild a new club and the personnel has completely changed right across the board.

"The last two years have been tough on everyone and none more than our coach and the way he has handled himself has been in an incredibly professional manner.

"The players and staff really respect what he's been able to do even though it's been a tough environment.

"Right now we really believe in where the club is going and where this man, Dean Bailey, is going to take us."

Bailey said there were positives in his time at the helm despite the side finishing on the bottom of the ladder in 2008 and 2009.

"We've certainly accomplished a bit in the last two years, not only in rebuilding the club but also in giving it a very strong focus," Bailey said.

"There is a lot of work to be done but I not only think we've got the personnel but we've got the list of players to take us there.

"I've no doubt we will improve this year and next year with more games into the players I think you'll find that the expectations will be greater and from there I think anything's possible."

The club has shown faith in Bailey despite a disappointing record.

Since he took over in 2008 the side has won just seven games from 44 matches.

However the hierarchy at Melbourne has taken into account the administrative issues the club went though during the early stage of his tenure.

Bailey worked under three chief executives and two club presidents during his first two years.

He is regarded as a coach who has a rapport with his players and seen as a mentor who can best help develop the young high draft picks who have been recruited.

Jack Watts, Jack Trengove, Tom Scully and Liam Jurrah are four key players in the Demons' long-term plan to haul themselves up the ladder and the club believes Bailey should be given more time to hone their skills.

Following Bailey's new deal, Fremantle's Mark Harvey remains the only coach uncontracted for the 2011 season.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP