Adam Simpson reveals what he REALLY said to footy star at final press conference after fans tried to solve mystery… as axed West Coast coach explains why awkward exchange with CEO Don Pyke unfolded
- Adam Simpson has revealed what he said to Bailey Williams
- Bizarre moment caused a stir during his press conference
- Simpson honestly admitted what was said during the exchange
Adam Simpson has given the answer to the mystery that all football fans were talking about after his last press conference with the West Coast.
The Eagles players were present as Simpson bid farewell to the club after 13 years, as the club struggles to find form again in the hectic 2024 season.
As Simpson walked out ahead of club CEO Don Pyke and chairman Paul Fitzpatrick, he was spotted saying something to Bailey Williams, who was sitting closest to him in the aisle.
Opposite Williams was AFLW legend Daisy Pearce, who was left reeling in shock when Simpson made a comment about Williams, fuelling further speculation about what had been said.
The unusual moment caused a stir on social media and Simpson opened up about the interaction in an interview with Channel 7 on Wednesday evening.
“It’s actually a bit embarrassing for whoever came up with the speculation,” he said on Talking Footy.
‘Bailey has the nastiest red moustache I’ve ever seen and I said ‘you’ve got to get rid of that moustache’ and I did.
“He looks like Goose from Top Gun, that doesn’t look good.”
Adam Simpson has opened up about what he said to an Eagles player during his press conference
Simpson was spotted saying something to Bailey Williams on his way to the press conference
“I said, ‘Buddy, you’ve got to take that moustache off,’ and that’s what I said. I didn’t even know Harley was there.”
“I don’t know how it’s portrayed, but it shows what can happen with the media.”
It wasn’t the only awkward encounter that left fans wanting an explanation. Pyke’s surprise offer to Simpson to coach one final game against the Lions on Sunday prompted a stunned reaction from the 2018 Championship winner.
Simpson later turned down the offer but will be honoured before the match at Optus Stadium.
“I messed that up. Pykey and I had spoken beforehand and he asked if it was on the table. I wasn’t entirely sure at the time and I think I gave the wrong message,” he said.
‘I wasn’t as clear as I should have been and when I got to the press conference I think it was my fault.
“When you look at how it all works, you go home after your press conference and you immediately go into a different mode. Match commission and press conferences and pre-game and post-game… all that stuff, while I could have done it, I just don’t think I had to.
“I really want to go to the ground, especially for the fans. I really appreciate what the members have done for the club. For me personally, they’ve had my back over the last 12 months, so I’d like to acknowledge that before the game.”