KEN HINKLEY will remain at Port Adelaide in 2018 and is hopeful of entering into negotiations with club management regarding a contract extension.
Speaking to Rowey and Bicks on the FIVEaa Sports Show, Hinkley confirmed he will remain Port Adelaide's coach next year in the face of speculation Gold Coast is pursuing the Power principal's signature.
Hinkley was appointed coach of Port Adelaide in spring 2012 and has led the Power to three finals campaigns in his five seasons.
He affirmed his commitment to seeing out his existing contract at Alberton, saying there was "absolutely no doubt" he would be in charge during the 2018 season.
"What I can tell you is that I am contracted, and happily contracted to be at Port Adelaide for season 2018, which means I'll be there," Hinkley said.
"We [Hinkley and Port Adelaide] have been talking... there's no doubt about that.
"The facts are there has been some interest from outside of Port Adelaide, clearly there are some reasons for me to think about those types things [but] there's never been any doubt in my mind with this group of players that we are in it together, that we're invested together."
Hinkley indicated that talks would continue with Port Adelaide management regarding his tenure at the club, and is hopeful to see that progress.
"We've spoken, we'll continue to talk, I'm
"I have great belief in Keith and David that will be the case.
"Most definitely will I be coaching Port Adelaide in 2018, and I'm hopeful that it's a lot longer to go [after that].
"I'm committed to this playing group."
