The 2001 Brownlow medallist was confident of securing a development coaching role, but was told on Tuesday by the Bombers that he was unsuccessful in his bid.

Akermanis will now stay on as North Albury coach.

“It’s business as usual at North and we expect to announce some signings on the back of this news,” Akermanis said.

“It’s been a great experience and it’s great to go through the process.

“I now know that I’m ready to take on a development or line role within an AFL club from now on.”

The triple-premiership Brisbane Lion was interviewed by the Bombers last Wednesday, as they searched for a development coach to work with their first to third-year players.

The Bombers haven’t announced who has won the race to work alongside VFL coach Matthew Egan.

“I’m a little surprised (to miss out),” Akermanis told The Border Mail.

“I think whoever did get the job may have had some inside running which might have gone against me … it’s only my first job I’ve gone for in regards to the AFL system.”

Akermanis, who took training at Bunton Park on Monday night, has completed the level 2 coaching course and heads up several programs at North Albury, where he has coached for the past three seasons.

His priority now will be to re-sign several key players at the Hoppers, including Nick and Kris Holman and Hunter and Josh Lloyd.

Nick Holman, who polled the most votes in the Morris Medal but was ruled ineligible due to suspension, has been strongly linked to his former club Jindera.

“I think we’re going to get some good recruits from here on out and can cover our perceived losses,” Akermanis said.