Eagle Cox on lookout for AFL coaching gig

Retiring AFL ruckman Dean Cox says he will definitely be in a coaching role next year, but he's not 100 per cent sure whether it will be at West Coast.

Cox announced on Monday that he will be hanging up his boots at the end of the current season, bringing to a close a glittering career that has spanned 14 years.

The 32-year-old has combined his playing duties with a part-time role as West Coast's ruck coach this year.

Cox is eager to expand his responsibilities next year in a bid to build a coaching career, perhaps culminating in a senior role down the track.

Eagles coach Adam Simpson is keen for the veteran to continue on at the club in an assistant's role, but Cox may weigh up his options elsewhere first before committing to the Eagles.

"I still love the footy club and if a position is here, we will sit down and speak about that over the next 10 weeks or something," Cox told Perth radio station 6PR.

"Certainly throughout my coaching career I will venture somewhere and find a different environment to learn. But I'm not sure if that's next year."

With Cox's retirement now confirmed, fringe ruckmen Scott Lycett and Callum Sinclair are expected to re-sign with the Eagles in the near future.

Lycett has been heavily chased by Port Adelaide, but the Eagles are desperate to retain the South Australian in order to have a solid ruck partner for star big man Nic Naitanui.

Cox was rested for West Coast's win over Brisbane a fortnight ago, but the six-times All-Australian is set to be recalled for Friday night's clash with Richmond at Patersons Stadium.

The Eagles sit two wins adrift of eighth spot, meaning a loss to Richmond would virtually end their finals hopes.