SCOTT Burns is Nic Naitanui's preferred candidate to take over the vacant West Coast coaching role.

West Coast assistant Burns and his Fremantle counterpart Peter Sumich are favourites to take over from long-time coach John Worsfold, who handed in his resignation last week.

However, the Eagles' ruckman threw his support behind midfield coach Burns.

"I just think he's probably the right man to do it, but I'm sure if they choose someone else that's going to be the right decision as well," Naitanui said before the AFLPA MVP awards on Tuesday night.

"He's a very wise man. He's brought a lot since he's come from Collingwood and he's worked under 'Woosh' for the last five years as well."

Naitanui said Worsfold had left a lasting legacy at the club.

"He hasn't left and I don't think he'll ever leave. He's the heart and soul of West Coast and he's always welcome there," Naitanui said.

"It was a bit of a shock but everyone understood where 'Woosh' stood and it was his decision at the end of the day, so everyone respected it as well."

Still in training four days a week, Naitanui has foregone his overseas travel plans to ensure he gets his body right for next season.

He managed just 11 games in 2013 after having surgery for osteitis pubis in the off-season.

"I think I need a bit of conditioning. I missed out on that a fair bit last season and coming in to this season," he said

"If I can get it right now and give myself the best bet for pre-season then I'll be happy, so staying home was the right option for me."