Essendon assistant coaches Dean Wallis and Gary Ayres will pursue other opportunities in football following discussions with coach Matthew Knights on his restructured coaching set-up.

""Both men are former premiership players and experienced, respected coaches however we want the Club to go in a new direction with a different coaching set-up so there will be changes,"" Knights said.

""Dean indicated he wants a fresh start and a change and I told him I was changing the model in regards to coaching responsibilities and was looking for a new person.

""Gary was offered a full-time opposition analysis role but he didn't deem it challenging enough in regards to where he is heading for his coaching future.

""I have always had a good relationship with both men and we had an amicable, honest conversation.

""I am certain both men will be successful in whatever future direction they take in footy and I want to thank them on behalf of the entire Club for their support and commitment.""  

Knights confirmed that Gary O'Donnell will be offered the assistant coaching role responsible for defence.

He said he expects the Club to make three other coaching appointments - including a senior development coach and a development coach/bendigo coach - in the next few weeks.