Shanahan has been touted as the South’s second signing, with the Dragons expected to make an official announcement over the next few days.

“Matt’s a fantastic clubman who has a great rapport with our players,” said Wallace.

“In Perth, Matt was a great leader for their younger guys and I think he’d be capable of a similar role with the new Victorian franchise.

“From an on court perspective he reads the game extremely well, and knows how to get the best from his team.

“He’s got Victoria at heart, and that’s very important.”