It was Tuesday morning when James Hird called Matthew Egan in to his office.

What the pair discussed would the change the football landscape for the remainder of the week.

“Hirdy called me in and told me what was happening and said that the club would like me to take over,” Egan told 3AW.

“I wasn’t too sure at the start to be honest but I said I’ll do whatever the club want me to do.

“It all happened pretty quick.”

Hours later Hird fronted the media and explained the decision.

“It was obviously a sad day and a tough week but we tried to move on pretty quick," Egan said.

“It’s a ruthless industry when on Tuesday you’re dealing with things like that and then Wednesday I’m at the club planning for the upcoming game."

Egan joined Hird’s coaching staff at the end of 2011. 

In his first two seasons, the former Cat was responsible for looking after the forwards but more recently he’s been charged with taking control of the defence.

Egan has also played a strong role in running training.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without him (Hird) to be honest,” Egan said.

“He has a lot of belief in me, he gave me a lot of responsibility so I felt I grew a lot as a coach because of him.

“It was quite weird because he was really pumped for me, to give me the opportunity so it was a weird conversation.

“I was shattered and shocked for him but after that conversation my head was trying to think how we’re going to help the players.”

Egan nearly helped the players to what would have been a famous win against Gold Coast. 

He said the priority now is to finish the season off strongly against Richmond and Collingwood.